Door Handle Replacement
It's worth replacing door handles if you aren't happy with the way they appear, or if they're difficult to use. With a bit of patience, you can put in the new handle in no time.
Modern door handles are typically equipped with cover plates that hide the screws, giving them a more attractive appearance. If your new handle does not have screws already connected, you'll have to attach them separately.
Removal of the old Handle
The door handle is not only a decoration for your home it also serves as an important safety feature that lets you to lock and unlock your door. However, as time passes the door handle could lose its grip, appear loose or start to look old and worn. This is a clear indication that it's time to replace the door handle.
One of the first indications that your door handle requires replacing is if it's becoming difficult to operate. This is a problem because it means that you can not lock or unlock your door, which could pose an security risk to you and your family.
Another reason to replace your door handle is if it's damaged or broken. A damaged or broken door handle is risky, particularly for elderly or children members who may struggle to open it. They could become trapped. Fortunately, it's fairly easy to fix a broken door handle by simply replacing the handle that was broken.
The majority of modern door handles are standard size and so they are suitable for any door. If you're unsure if the new door handle you're buying will fit, try removing the old one and measuring the holes in its housing. This will help you buy the right door handle.
It is the easiest method to remove the old door handle by unscrewing it from the door. This is typically done with a screw driver. Some door handles come with a cover plate which hides the mounting screws. It is necessary to remove it to get to the screws. Once you have removed the old handle, take note of the way the spindle is positioned to ensure that you can be sure to align it when you install the new one.
Alternately, you can take off your door handle by unscrewing it from the latch mechanism. You can make use of a screwdriver to take off the door handle. However, you'll have to locate the small latch that is located on the edge of the trim piece. After you have removed the latch, take off the handle and strike plate. Then, remove the latch from the door's edge.
Take off the Strike Plate
You'll need to replace your latch plate when you replace the handle. It's the part that holds the hole where the latch of the door hooks when the door is closed. The packaging that the new handles arrive with will offer two options for latch plates: a rectangular one and circular (see the above diagram that outlines 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 remove the screw that holds the old latch plate. The screws are often quite tight and require a bit of force to loosen them. If you are able, it could be beneficial to have another person help with this process.
After the screws have been removed and the latch plate will slide out of the door with ease. If it is stuck or doesn't move, use a small nail file to scratch around the edges of the latch plate. This may help free the plate.
Now you can prepare the new strike plate for installation. With the screws made of wood that were included with your new handles, screw the latch plate onto the inside of the doorjamb. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this may damage the strike plate.
If you're not sure whether the latch plate is in its proper position, close and open the door to check whether it latches and closes correctly. If repairmywindowsanddoors does not then you'll need to adjust the strikeplate up or down or forward or back until the door closes properly.
If the door still moves or jiggles, you may need to increase the size of your latch hole on the strike plate. This is more prevalent on older doors. It could be caused by wear and tear hinges that are too shallow, the incorrect size of the latch or damaged strike plate. If this is the case, use a metal filing instead of a chisel or hammer to adjust the strike plate.
Removing the Latch
The latch is the angled metal piece that slides between the hole that runs along the inside edge of your door. The latch moves forward when you turn the handle. It also catches an opening in the door frame so that the door remains closed. If your door shakes when you close, replacing the latch could be all that is needed to fix the problem.
The screws that hold the door latch are hard to spot however, you can put a screwdriver in a small hole on the trim plate and then pry the latch off. After you've removed the trim plate, it'll be easy to remove the latch and the bolts that keep the latch and spindle in the position.
If the latch cannot be easily removed, use a paperclip or tool to remove it from the handle mechanism. Place the item in the latch's slot that is recessed and gently turn or jiggle it until you feel the latch and handle start to split. You may need repeat this process a few times before you can remove the latch.
You should be able to slide the new latch into its slot without issues after you've removed the old one. Make use of the new screws to secure the latch to the strike plate or door frame. Make sure it's properly positioned in the slot, aligned with the screw chambers.
Before installing the new handle, be sure to measure your current backset (the distance from the centre of the big hole on the front surface of the door to the edge). Check that the latch size of the new handle is equal to the measurement.
If you're replacing the latch or handle, or if your old lock cylinder is damaged, then you'll need a new one. If you are not changing locks the new lock should fit into your existing recess, and also work with your current keys. Make sure you select a latch with rectangular cover plates that match your old handles.
Then remove the Cover Plate
Door handles can begin to look worn over time If you replace them with a contemporary lever-on-rose designs, it's a quick and easy DIY project and decorating idea that will enhance the overall appearance of your home. You can buy complete sets that come with matching escutcheons and privacy adaptor kits.
The first step to replace an internal door handle is to remove the cover plate or rose, which hides the screws and mechanism inside. Look for an opening tab on the plate and use a flathead screwdriver to pop it off the knob. It may have a slot on one edge or be held by pins.
Remove the screw holding the handle in the interior and place it aside when the cover plate has been removed. You'll also want to take out the screws that hold the latch and inner plates, which you can do by loosening them using a Philips screwdriver. Then, you can remove the outer plates and latch plate from the door and put them aside.
Most doors have gaps between the door jamb and the inside edge of the frame, which allows for a handle, but not all have. If yours doesn't, you'll need to drill a hole into the door to accommodate the new handle. The procedure to do this is the same as for opening a door with a lock, but you'll have to be extra careful to avoid damaging the frame or door.
After the holes are drilled then you'll need to install new door knob screws. Make sure you purchase the same size as the previous ones, so you do not end up with a handle that's too tight or loose. You'll also need to install an additional latch plate and strike rod that aren't part of the majority of door handle sets.
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