Door Handle Replacement
Door handles appear to be a small detail however, if you don't like the way they look or are finding them difficult to use then it's time to replace them. With a little patience, you can install the new handle in no time.
Modern door handles are equipped with cover plates that conceal the screws to give them a beautiful appearance. If the new handle doesn't already have them connected, you'll need to attach them separately.
Removing the Old Handle
Door handles are not only an important aesthetic addition to your home, but they're vital for safety since they let you lock and unlock your door. Over time the door handle can begin to lose its grip or feel loose. It could be beginning to appear aged and worn. This is a sign that it's time to replace the door handle.
If your door handle is becoming difficult to use, it may be time to replace it. This is a serious problem because you won't be able to lock or unlock the door which could put you and your family at risk.
It's also recommended to replace your door handle in the event that it's damaged or broken. A broken door handle is dangerous, particularly for elderly or children members who may struggle to open it. They could be trapped. It's easy to replace a broken handle on the door.
Most modern door handles are standard size, so they should fit any door. If you're unsure if your new door handle will work, try removing the old one and measuring the holes in its housing. This will allow you to buy the right door handle.
It is the easiest way to remove the old door handle by taking it off from the door. This is typically done with the screw driver. Some door handles have an enclosure plate that hides the mounting screws. You'll need to remove it to get to the screws. After you have removed the handle that was previously used, take note of the way in which the spindle has been connected. This will aid in aligning the new handle.
You can also remove your door handle by unscrewing it from the latch mechanism. This is typically done with the screwdriver, but you'll need to find the small latch, which is located just to the left of the trim piece. After removing the latch, unscrew the handle and the strike plate. Then remove the latch from the door's edge.
Remove the Strike Plate
You'll have to replace your latch plate after replacing the handle. This is the plate that is the one that holds the hole in which the latch of the door hooks when the door closes. The packaging that the new handles are packaged in will have two latch plates: a rectangular one and a circular one (see the diagram above detailing the parts of the door handle). If you have an old rectangular latch plate, replace it with an oval one. This will allow the latch to hook onto the strike plate, making the handle easier to use.
The first step is to unscrew the screw that holds the latch plate that was previously in place. The screws are often quite tight and require a bit of force to loosen them. It is helpful to have a second person assist in this area if it is possible.
After the screws are removed the latch should pull out of the door easily. If it's stuck or won't move then use a small nail file to scrape the edges of the latch plate. This will sometimes free the plate.
Now you can prepare the new strike plate for installation. Utilizing the screws made of wood that came with the new handles, screw the latch plate onto the inside of the doorjamb. Don't over tighten your screws as this can cause damage to the strike plate.
If you're unsure whether the latch plate is in the correct position, shut and then open the door to check if it latches and closes properly. If it doesn't you'll need to adjust the strike plate up or down, or even forward or back until the door shuts and latches correctly.
If the door is still jiggling or moving, you may need to enlarge the latch hole in the strike plate. This is more frequent on older doors. It can be caused by wear and tear hinges that aren't narrow, the incorrect size of the latch or a damaged strike plate. If this is the case you can use a metal file instead of a chisel or hammer to adjust the strike plate.
Removal of the Latch
The latch is the angled metal piece that slides in and out of the hole that runs along the inside edge of your door. When you turn the handle, it pushes the latch forward and allows you to open the door. It also hooks in a hole on the door frame to ensure that the door stays closed. If your door wobbles when you close it, a new latch may be all you need to correct the issue.
The screws that hold the door latch are difficult to see however, you can use a screwdriver to make a small hole in the trim plate, and then pull the latch off. Once you've removed the trim plate, it should be simple to remove the latch as well as the bolts that keep the spindle and latch in the position.
If the latch isn't able to be released, try using a paper clip or a tool to spring it loose from the handle mechanism. Insert the item in the recessed latch slot and then gently twist or jiggle until you feel the that the latch and handle begin to break off. It may take this several times before the latch is loose enough to pull out.
It should be possible to slide the new latch into its slot without any issues after you've removed the old one. Make sure the latch is positioned correctly in the slot and lined up with the screw chambers, and then use your new screws to fasten it to the strike plate and door frame.
Measure the existing backset (the distance between the center of the large hole in the front of the door and the edge) before installing the new handle. Also, ensure that the latch size on the new handle is in line with this measurement.
If you are replacing the handle or latch or handle, or if the old lock cylinder is damaged then you'll require a new one. If you're not changing the locks, however, a new latch will fit into your existing recess and will work just fine with your current keys. Be sure to select an entry point with a rectangular cover plate that match your old handles.
Remove the cover plate
You can replace your old door handles with a new lever and rose design to make a difference in the appearance of your house. You can purchase complete sets that come with matching escutcheons as well as privacy adaptor kits.
To replace an internal door handle take off the cover plate (or rose), which protects the screws and the inner mechanism. Find a release tab on the plate and employ a flathead screwdriver remove it from the knob. It could have a slot on one edge or be secured by pins.
Remove the screw that is holding the handle in the interior and set it aside once the cover plate is removed. It is also necessary to remove the screws that are holding the latch and the plates inside to the door, which you can accomplish by loosening them using the help of a Philips screwdriver. Then, take the inner plates and latch plate from the door and put them aside.
Most doors have gaps between the door jamb and the inner edge of the frame that makes room for a handle, however not all do. If yours does not then you'll have to drill a hole into the door for the new handle. bifold door handle replacement is the same procedure for opening a locked door however, you'll have to be extra cautious not to scratch the frame or door.
After the holes are drilled, you'll need to install new door knob screws. Make sure to buy the same size as the old ones, so that you don't end up with the handle that is too tight or loose. Installing a new latch and strike rod is also necessary. These aren't included in all door handle sets.
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