10 Unexpected Door Handle Replacement Tips

Door Handle Replacement Door handles may seem like an insignificant thing but if you aren't happy with the style or design of them, or are unable to use them, it's worth replacing them. Installing the new handle on your door is simple if you have patience. Modern door handles are equipped with cover plates that hide the screws for an attractive appearance. However, you'll need to attach them separately if your new handle doesn't have them attached already. Remove the old handle The door handle isn't only a decorative addition to your home It's also an element of security that allows you to lock and unlock the door. As time passes the door handle could become loose or feel loose. It could also appear worn out and old. This is a sign that it's time to replace your door handle. 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 pose a security risk for you and your family. Another reason to replace your door handle is if it's damaged or broken. A broken door handle is dangerous, especially for elderly or children members who may struggle to open it. They could be trapped. It's simple to fix a damaged handle on doors. Modern door handles are generally standard sizes and will fit any door. If you are not sure if the new door handle you are buying will work, remove the old one and measure the holes in its housing. This will help you to purchase the right size door handle. The easiest method to remove the handle from your door is to take it off of the door. This is usually done with the screw driver. However some door handles have a cover plate that conceals the mounting screws, so you'll have to cut off this to access the screws beneath. Once you have removed the old handle, make a note of how the spindle is positioned to ensure that you can align it when you fit your new one. You can also remove the door handle by removing it from the latch mechanism. You can use a screwdriver for removing the door handle. However, you'll have to locate the small latch, which is located on the edge of the trim piece. After taking off the latch, remove the handle and strike plate. Then, you can remove the latch from the edge of the door. Removal of the Strike Plate You'll need to replace your 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 new handles will come with two latch plates that are circular and rectangular plate (see the image above which shows the various parts of a door handle). If your current latch plate has rectangular, swap it out for the round one, so that the latch hooks into the strike plate in a manner that makes the handle easier to use. The first step is to take off the screw that holds the latch plate. The screws can be very tight and will require some force to loosen. It might be beneficial to have a second person help in this area if it is possible. The latch plate should easily come out of the door once the screws have been removed. If the latch plate is stuck or won't move use a small file to scrape the edges. This can sometimes open the plate. Now you can prepare the new strike plate to be installed. Attach the latch plate to the doorjamb using the wood screws that were included with your new handles. Be careful not to tighten too much 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 see whether it latches and closes properly. If not you'll have to adjust the strikeplate either up or down or forward or back until the door closes properly. If the door is still moving or jiggling, then it may be necessary to expand the hole for latching in the strike plate. This is more frequent on older doors. It could be caused by wear and tear hinges that aren't small, a wrong size latch or a damaged strike plate. If this is the case then you should use a filing made of metal instead of a chisel or hammer to adjust the strike plate. Eliminating the Latch The latch is the metal piece that is angled that is able to move through the hole that runs along the inside edge of your door. When you turn the handle, it pushes this latch forward, allowing you to open the door. It also hooks in the door's frame so that the door remains closed. If your door shakes when you close it, an upgrade to the latch could be the only thing needed to fix the problem. The screws that hold the door latch are difficult to see, but you can usually put a screwdriver in an insignificant hole on the trim plate and pry the latch off. After taking off the trim plate you should be able to take off the latch, as well as the bolts that hold it, as well as the spindle. If upvc door handles cannot be easily removed then use a paperclip tool to remove it from the handle mechanism. Place the item into the recessed slot of the latch and gently twist it or jiggle until you feel the handle and latch begin to separate. You may have to repeat this process several times before you are able to pull the latch out. You should be able to slide the new latch into its slot without issues after you've removed the old one. Use your new screws to attach the latch to the strike plate or door frame. Make sure it's correctly placed in the slot, aligned with the screw chambers. Measure the existing backset (the distance between the center of the large hole on the front of the door and the edge) before installing the new handle. Also, make sure that the size of the latch on the new handle is in line with this measurement. You'll require a brand new lock cylinder if you're replacing the handle and latch, or your old one is damaged. If you are not changing locks, a new lock should fit in your existing recess, and also work with your current keys. Make sure you select the latch with rectangular cover plates that match your old handles. Then remove the Cover Plate You can replace your door handles with a modern rose and lever designs to make a difference in the appearance of your home. You can purchase complete sets of escutcheons, the escutcheons as well as privacy adaptors and escutcheons. To replace an internal door handle take off the cover plate (or rose) that covers the screws and mechanism. Use a flathead to remove the plate. It could have an opening on one side or be held by pins. Once the cover plate is off take off the screw that holds the interior handle in place and put it aside. It is also necessary to remove the screws that hold the latch and the plates inside, which you can do by loosening them using the help of a Philips screwdriver. Remove the inner plates and latch from the door. Place them aside. Most doors have gaps between the door jamb and the edge of the frame, which allows for a handle, but not all have. If yours does not allow for a handle, you'll have to drill a hole through the door. This is the same process as opening a door locked however you'll have to be extra cautious not to harm the door or frame. After drilling the holes, you'll need to install new door knob screws. Make sure to buy the same size as the previous ones, to ensure that you do not end up with an handle that is either too tight or loose. Installing a new latch and strike rod is also necessary. These aren't included in the majority of door handle sets. If you're looking for a quality replacement interior door handle set, try the Amazon's Choice FAERSI two-piece chrome finish handle set. It's a factory-fit and has received hundreds of five-star reviews from delighted customers. It's a great option to replace worn or damaged interior door hardware on your Chevy.