French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles serve a crucial role, protecting your home from outside elements. They're also a prominent design feature that can set the tone for your interior aesthetic.
Most French doors have two handles: one for use and one for decoration. This handle that is not functional is often known as a dummy handle.
Replacement
A new handle can be an affordable option to improve the appearance of French doors. If you're renovating or replacing your doors, it is important to choose a high-quality handle that can withstand frequent use and the elements. The most durable handles are made of stainless steel since it is antibacterial and easy to clean. They also feature a brushed finish that wards off fingerprints and is less likely to show rust or scratches over time.
Handle sets are available in a wide selection of styles and colors. You're sure find something to match your style and decor. Certain handle designs are more attractive and others have an integrated lock to provide added security. You can get key-operated handles which are perfect for homes with small children. Some handles are more expensive than others, and it's important to consider your budget when selecting the right set.
Decide what configuration is best for your French door prior to purchasing a handle. If you have interior doors that open independently of one another, then you may want one handle that locks, and one that does not. This will determine if require a rotating handle or a fixed one. It is also important to decide whether you would like the 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 basic Yale-style lock or a more advanced multipoint locking system that can keep your French doors secure. Some systems allow you to lock the top and bottom of the door simultaneously, while others require that you unlock both the top and the bottom.
If you're ready to put in your new handle, you must first locate the slot for actuator. It's a cylindrical slot that connects to the latch. It's possible to find an opening for this in the door frame however, you must be sure to measure and use the spirit level to ensure the holes are straight. You should also receive an e-boring template along with your handle to help make the correct measurements.
Installation
Although door handles may appear as if they're just a few accessories however they play an important role in the functionality of your french doors and security, as well as aesthetics. That's why it's important to choose high quality handles that can stand up to regular use and won't need frequent replacement or maintenance.
Depending on the configurations you prefer and the intended use of your door, you may require different handles. However regardless of the design and function, the installation process is similar. First, you need to take off the handles that are currently in place and clean up the area where the new ones will be placed. The next step is to drill holes into the door where you intend to mount the new set of handles. Follow the directions that came along with your hardware so that you can drill the holes correctly to let the lock mechanism fit.
After that, put the lock bolt in the hole in the edge of the door, and connect it to the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical piece that has a slot that the bolt can pass through. Certain handle designs might call for the bolt to be inserted before the actuator, so be sure to consult your instructions if you're unclear about the correct order to put it together.
Then you can screw the plate in place to cover the latching mechanisms as well as the locking mechanisms on the active side. You should then test the latch and lock to make sure that they function properly. After you're satisfied with the results you're satisfied, repeat the procedure on the dummy side of the door to put in the non-functional handle.
During the process, you need to take your time and be cautious. You might end with handles that are not functional or look good if you rush the process. You should always seek out an expert to get the best results. You'll then be able enjoy your gorgeous french doors for years to come.
Compatibility
The kind of handle you pick for your French doors will be contingent on what you plan to use them for. If you're using them for closets, for instance you might not need them to be locked, so decorative handles are sufficient. If you intend to put them in a dining or bedroom room, you'll need locking hardware that is simple to use and secure against forced entry. The handle that you choose for your french door should also be compatible with the locks already installed. Talk to a professional to make sure the lock is simple to operate. A knowledgeable expert such as the ones at CD Windows will be able to assist you in finding the right handle for your doors.
When it comes to French Door Handles, there are a myriad of options. Certain handles for French doors have built-in locking systems, eliminating the need for a separate locking system. Some locks and latches are activated by the handle for additional security. In bridgwater french door repairs , you'll need to ensure that the handles you choose are compatible with the hardware you already have and will work well with the door 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 which means they require a different mechanism than single doors. If you're looking for the option of locking both sides, then you will need a handle set with locks specifically designed for double doors.
In most cases, you'll notice that the handles you install on the active French Door have an opening in the plates to accommodate the latch and the bolt to lock. The fake handle, on the contrary, will be a non-functioning handle that's purely decorative. These handles are typically employed in areas that don't require frequent opening such as bathrooms and bedrooms.
Maintenance
It is important to take care of your door handles since they are the most frequently used part of your doors. Over time they can become tarnished, discoloured or even lose their shine entirely. The right cleaning solution can bring them back to their original glory. The most common and gentlest cleaning solution is mild soap solutions but you should wash and dry off any moisture afterward to avoid damage and corrosion.
Brass handles are particularly susceptible to tarnishing however, you can minimize this risk by keeping them clean. To get rid of dust and dirt first, wash the brass surface with warm tap water. Then, you can use a soft cloth. Make a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice to get rid of any tarnish. Once you've removed the tarnish, finish by polishing the handle using a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Selecting the right product for your material will guarantee a smooth and shiny finish that will last for many years.
It can be frustrating to experience a squeaky or stiff door handle but this is something that's generally fixable. First, make sure whether there aren't any small objects or debris caught inside the locking mechanism of the door and this could be the cause of the issue. If this isn't the case, it could be that you just need to grease the internal workings of the door handle to resolve it.
WD-40 is multi-purpose product with a specialist formula that works quickly to aid in lubricating your hardware. Applying large amounts of the liquid will allow your door handle to move easily, and prevent it from sounding squeaky. You can also use a flexible Straw to get into all the tiny nooks and crevices on your French door handle, so you don't miss any place.
Although replacing handles for French doors is relatively simple however, you must be cautious when drilling holes to install new handles. This is because different styles for doors have a variety of holes in the frame and door which is why it's crucial to ensure that the holes are matched when fitting the new handles. Check that the cylinder pin, which is the metal piece that runs through the entire lock mechanism, fits perfectly.