Why Door Handle Replacement Will Be Your Next Big Obsession?

Door Handle Replacement Door handles may seem like an insignificant thing but if you aren't happy with the way they look or are unable to use them, it's worth replacing them. With some patience, you can install an entirely new handle in a short time. Modern door handles are typically equipped with cover plates that conceal the screws for an attractive appearance. However, you'll need to attach them separately if the new handle doesn't already have them. Remove the old handle Door handles aren't just an essential for aesthetics of your home, but they're also vital for safety since they let you lock and unlock your door. But, over time, your door handle may lose its grip, become loose, or appear old and worn. This is an indication that it's time to replace it. One of the first indications that your door handle needs replacing is if it's becoming difficult to operate. This is a problem since it means that you can not lock or unlock your door which could create 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 can be dangerous, especially for children and elderly family members who might struggle to open it. They may get trapped. It's simple to replace a broken handle on doors. Modern door handles are usually standard sizes and should fit any door. If you aren't certain if the new door handle you are buying will work, remove the old one and take measurements of its holes in the housing. This will let you purchase the correct size door handle. It is easiest to take off the old door handle by taking it off from the door. Usually, a screwdriver is used. However, some door handles have the cover plate which hides the mounting screws so you'll need to remove this to access the screws underneath. After removing the old handle, take note of the way the spindle is connected. This will aid in aligning the new handle. You can also remove the door handle by unscrewing the latch mechanism. You can use a screwdriver to remove the door handle. However, you will have to locate the small latch which is located on the edge of the trim piece. After you have removed the latch, you'll need to unscrew the handle from the strike plate and then the latch off the door's edge. Removal of the Strike Plate You'll need to replace the latch plate when you replace the handle. This is the plate that holds the hole where the latch of the door hooks when the door closes. The packaging that the new handles come in will have two options for latch plates: a rectangular one and a circular one (see the above diagram that outlines the components of a door handle). If you have an rectangular latch plate, swap it with a circular one. This will allow the latch to be able to hook into the strike plate, making the handle easier. The first step is to unhook the screw that holds the latch plate. These screws are often tight, and will require some force to loosen. If you are able, it could be beneficial to have a second person assist with this part. After the screws are removed, the latch plate should pull out of the door with ease. If the latch plate is stuck or doesn't move, use a small hammer to scrape the edges. This can sometimes open the plate. Now you can prepare the new strike plate to be installed. Using the wood screws that came with your new handles, screw the latch plate onto the inside of the doorjamb. Do not overtighten your screws as this could damage the strike plate. If you're unsure whether the latch plate is in its proper position, shut and then open the door to see whether it latches and closes properly. If it doesn't you'll need to adjust the strike plate up or down, or forward or back until the door shuts and latches correctly. If the door is moving or jiggling, then it may be necessary to expand the hole for the latch in the strike plate. This is more common in older doors, however it could be due to wear and tear hinge mortises that are not deep enough or not the right size for the latch, or from a broken or damaged strike plate that is damaged or broken. 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 is able to move through the hole in the inner edge of your door. When you turn the handle, it pushes this latch forward, allowing you to open the door. It also hooks into an opening in the frame of the door to keep the door shut. If your door wobbles when you close it, an upgrade to the latch could be the only thing needed to fix the issue. The screws that secure the door latch are hard to spot, but you can usually put a screwdriver in a small hole in the trim plate and then pry the latch off. After removal of the trim plate you should be able to remove the latch and the bolts that hold it, as well as the spindle in position. If the latch cannot be easily removed then use a paperclip tool to remove it from the handle mechanism. Place upvc door handle into the recessed latch slot and gently twist it or jiggle until you feel the that the latch and handle are beginning to separate. It is possible repeat this process a few times before you are able to pull the latch out. You should be able slide the new latch into its slot with no problems after you have removed the old one. Make sure the latch is positioned correctly in the slot and is aligned with the screw chambers, and then use the new screws to attach it to the strike plate and door frame. Before you install the new handle, make certain to measure your existing backset (the distance from the center of the big hole on the front of the door to the edge). Also, make sure that the latch size on the new handle is in line with this measurement. You'll require a brand new cylinder for your lock if you're replacing the handle and latch or your existing one is damaged. If you're not changing the locks however, a new latch will fit into your existing recess, and work just fine with the keys you have currently. Be sure to select a latch with a rectangular cover plate that match your old handles. Remove the cover plate Door handles can start to look shabby with time If you replace them with a contemporary lever on rose design it's an easy and quick DIY and decorating project that will enhance the overall appearance of your home. You can buy complete sets with matching privacy adaptors, escutcheons, and escutcheons. To replace the door handle inside, remove the cover plate (or rose) that covers the screws and inner mechanism. Utilize a flathead to take off the plate. It could have an opening along one side or be secured by a pin. Remove the screw that holds the handle inside and set it aside once the cover plate is removed. Take off the screws that hold both the outer and inner plates. You can loosen them by using the help of a Philips Screwdriver. Then, you can remove the outer plates and latch plate from the door and set them aside. Some doors don't have this gap. If yours does not, you'll need to drill a hole in the door to accommodate the new handle. This is the same process for opening a locked door however you'll need to be extra careful not to damage the frame or door. After drilling the holes then you'll need to install new door knob screws. Make sure you purchase the same size as the old ones, so you do not end up with a handle that's too tight or loose. Installing a new latch and strike rod is also required. These aren't included in all door handle sets. Amazon's Choice FAERSI 2-piece chrome finish handle sets are a fantastic choice if you're in the market of a premium interior door handle replacement set. It's a factory-fit and has received a plethora of 5-star reviews from happy customers. It's an excellent choice to replace damaged or worn interior door handle hardware on your Chevy HHR.