Five Things You Don't Know About French Door Handle Replacement
French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles are crucial to protect your home from elements from the outside. Door handles are also a popular feature that can set the style for your interior.
The majority of French doors are configured with two handles, one that's functional, and the other that's decorative. This handle that's not functional is commonly known as a dummy handle.
Replacement
A new handle can be an affordable way to update the look of French doors. If you're renovating or replacing older doors, it is important to choose high-quality handles that can withstand frequent use and the elements. The best handles are made of stainless steel as it is antibacterial and easy to clean. The handles feature a brushed surface that is resistant to fingerprints and less likely to become rusty or show scratches over time.
Handle sets are available in various styles and finishes, so you're bound to find something that matches your style and decor. Some handle styles are more attractive while others have an integrated lock to provide added security. You can also get key-operated handles, which are great for homes with children. Certain handles are more expensive than others, however it is important to think about your budget when selecting a set.
Determine the best configuration for your French door prior to buying a handle. If you have internal doors that open independently of one another and you want one handle that locks and one that does not. This will determine if you require a turn handle or a fixed handle. You'll also need to determine whether you'd like your door to be able to lock from both the inside and outside.
You'll require a lock to unlock external doors which require a key. You can pick a simple Yale lock or a multipoint locking system to secure your French doors. Some systems allow you to lock the top and bottom of the door simultaneously while some require you unlock both the top and bottom.
Locate the actuator slot before installing your new handle. This is a cylindrical insert which connects the latch. You can usually find an opening in the door frame for this, but it's important to measure with care and use a spirit level to ensure the holes are straight and uniform. With your handle, you'll need to receive a hole-boring tool to assist you in taking the correct measurements.
Installation
While door handles might seem as if they're just a few accessories, they play a critical role in your french doors' function, security and even aesthetics. It's important to select high-quality handles that can endure regular use and don't need to be replaced or maintained regularly.
Based on the configuration you want and the purpose behind your doors, you may require different types of handles. The process of installing them is almost identical, irrespective of the design or function you choose. You'll need to take off your handles that are currently in use and clean the area in which you are planning to install the new handles. Next, drill holes into the door where you intend to install the new handle set. Make sure to follow the instructions that came with your hardware to ensure that you drill the holes in a manner that will allow the lock mechanism to fit correctly.
After that, put the lock bolt into the hole in the edge of the door, and connect it to the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical part with a slot that the bolt can pass through. If you're unsure about the assembly order you should consult the instructions.
Once you've done that screw the plate in place to cover the latching and locking mechanisms on the side that is active on the door. Test the lock and latch. Repeat the procedure on the dummy door side to install the handle that isn't functional.
It is essential to be patient and cautious throughout the process. If you rush through the process you might end up with a set of handles that don't work properly or look great. That's why it is important to work with an experienced professional who can provide you with the most effective outcomes. In the end, you'll be able to enjoy your gorgeous french doors for years to come!
Compatibility
The kind of handle you pick for your french doors will depend on how you intend to make use of them. If you intend to use them as closets, you may choose to use decorative handles instead of locking hardware. If you plan to use them in a bedroom or dining room, you'll need locking hardware that is simple to use and secure against forced entry. The handle you choose for your French doors should also be able to accommodate the locks already installed. Consult a professional to ensure that the lock is simple to operate. CD Windows has experts who can assist you in selecting the right handle.
There are many alternatives when it comes down to French Door Handles. Some are equipped with locks that are built-in, eliminating the necessity of a separate lock system. Some locks and latches are activated by the handle for extra security. In any case, you'll need to be sure that the handles you choose are compatible with your existing hardware and will fit well with the door's type and style.
You should also think about whether you want your handle sets to be locked on one side or both sides. French doors are two doors joined together and require a different mechanism than single doors. If you're looking for a solution that locks both sides, you'll need handles with a lock that's designed to be compatible with double doors.
In the majority of instances, the handles that you install on the active French Door will have openings in the plates that accept the latch and lock bolt. The Dummy handle, on contrary, will be a non-functioning handle that's purely decorative. These handles are typically used in areas that don't need to be opened often such as bathrooms and bedrooms.
Maintenance
It is crucial to take care of your door handles, as they are the most frequently used component of your doors. Over time, they can become tarnished or discoloured. They may even lose their shine. Using the correct cleaning solution can bring them back to their original glory. The most common and gentlest cleaner is a mild soap solution, although you should always clean and dry off all water afterward to avoid corrosion and damage.
Repair My Windows And Doors are especially prone to tarnishing. You can minimize this risk if you keep them clean. Begin by washing the brass surface with warm water and a soft cloth to eliminate dust and dirt. Then, make a mixture of lemon and baking soda to remove any tarnish. After you have removed the tarnish, finish by polishing the handle using a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Making sure you use the right cleaner for your particular material will give you a smooth and shiny finish that lasts for a long time.
It can be a hassle to experience a squeaky or stiff door handle but this is something that's generally fixable. Check to see whether there are any tiny objects or debris stuck in the locking mechanism. This could be the reason for your problem. If it's not the case, it could be that you just need to grease the internal workings of your door handle to resolve it.
WD-40 is a multipurpose product with a unique formula that allows you to lubricate hardware quickly. Applying large amounts of the liquid will allow your door handle to move easily, and prevent it from sounding squeaky. Use a flexible swivel or a brush to get into all the crevices and nooks of your French door handle.
Although replacing the handle of a French door is relatively simple, you will need to be careful when drilling holes for the new handles. It's because different door designs have different holes in the frame and door. This is why it's crucial to make sure that the holes are matched when installing the new handles. It's also important to check that the cylinder pin fits correctly, which is the piece of metal that runs through the whole lock mechanism of your door.