French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles serve a crucial role in protecting your home from elements outside. Door handles are also a notable feature that can set a tone for your interior aesthetic.
Most French doors come with two handles: one functional and one decorative. This handle that's not functional is commonly called a dummy handle.
Replacement
If you're looking to upgrade the appearance of your French doors, a new handle is a cost-effective way to do so. If your doors are older and need to be replaced or you're remodeling your home, it's essential to select high-quality handles that can stand up to repeated use and withstand the elements. The most durable handles are made of stainless steel that is antibacterial and is easy to clean. They also have a brushed finish that resists fingerprints and is less likely to show scratches or rust over time.
You can find handle sets in different designs and finishes, so you're sure to find something that matches your style and decor. Certain handle designs are more attractive while others have an integrated lock to give added security. You can get key-operated handles which are perfect for homes with small children. Some handles are more costly than others, so it's important to be aware of your budget when choosing the right set.
Choose the best configuration for your French door prior to purchasing the handle. If you have internal doors that open independently of each other You may need one handle that locks and one that does not. This will determine if you require a rotating handle or fixed one. You'll also need to determine whether you want the door to to lock from both sides.
You'll need to use a lock to unlock external doors which require a key. You can pick a basic Yale-style lock, or an sophisticated multipoint locking system that will keep your French doors safe. Certain systems let you lock the top and bottom of the door simultaneously and some require that you unlock both the top and the bottom.
When you're ready for installing your new handle, first find the slot for actuator. This is a circular insert which connects the latch. You can usually find a hole in the door frame to do this, however it's essential to take your measurements carefully and make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the holes are straight and uniform. You should also get an appropriate hole-boring template when you purchase your handle to help determine the right measurements.
Installation
Door handles might seem like minor accessories but they are essential to the function as well as security and aesthetics of your french doors. It's the reason it's essential to select high-quality handles that can stand up to regular use and won't require regular replacement or repairs.
Based on the configuration you want and the purpose behind your doors, you could require different types of handles. But regardless of the style and function the process of installation is similar. First, you must take off the handles that are currently in place and clean the area where the new ones will be placed. Drill holes into the door where you intend to install the handle set. Follow the instructions that came with your hardware to ensure that you can bore the holes properly to allow the lock mechanism to fit.
After that, put the lock bolt in the hole in the side of the door, and connect it to the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical piece that has a slot through which the bolt can pass. If you're unsure about the assembly order, consult your instructions.
Then, screw the plate in place to protect the latching mechanisms and locking mechanisms on the active side. Check the latch and lock. Repeat the process on the door side that you have made up to install the handle that isn't functional.
It is essential to be patient and attentive during the process. If you rush through the process you might end with a set of handles that don't function correctly or look great. This is why you should seek out a skilled professional who can provide you with the best outcomes. You'll be able to enjoy your gorgeous french doors for years to come.
Compatibility
The kind of handle you choose for your french doors will be contingent on the way you plan to utilize them. If you're using them to create closets, as an example it is unlikely that you'll need them to be locked, so decorative handles will suffice. If you plan to put them in a bedroom or dining room, you'll require locking hardware that is simple to use and secure against forced entry. The handle that you choose for your French door must also be compatible with the locks already installed. If you choose the wrong handle could make the lock difficult or impossible to operate, so it is essential to consult with a professional before making your shop. A knowledgeable expert such as the ones at CD Windows will be able to assist you in finding the right handle for your doors.
There are a myriad of options when it comes to French Door Handles. Certain handles for French doors have integrated locking systems, removing the requirement for a separate locking system. Some latches and locks are operated by the handle for extra security. In any case, you'll want to be sure that the handles you pick are compatible with your existing hardware and will work well with the door's type and style.
It is also important to consider whether you would like your handle sets to be locked on one or both sides. This is due to the fact that French doors are composed of two doors that are linked to one another, which means they require a completely different mechanism to secure them as single-doors do. If you're seeking an option that locks on both sides, you'll require a set of handle sets with a lock designed to be compatible with double doors.
In french door repairs southend RepairMyWindowsAndDoors of cases, you will find that the handles you put onto the active French Door have an opening in the plates to accommodate the latch and bolt to lock. The fake handle, on the other hand, is a non-functioning handle that's purely decorative. These handles are commonly employed in areas that don't need to be opened often such as bathrooms and bedrooms.
Maintenance
Door handles are one of the most frequently used components of your doors, so it's essential to maintain them. Over time, they can be stained or tarnished. They may also lose their shine. Using the correct cleaning solution can bring them back to their original splendor. In general mild soap is the most effective and safest cleaner. However, you must always dry and wash off any moisture afterwards to prevent corrosion.
Brass handles are especially prone to tarnishing however you can lessen this risk by maintaining them clean. Begin by washing the brass surface with warm water and then a soft cloth to get rid of dust and dirt. Next, prepare a mixture of lemon and baking soda to remove any tarnish. After you have removed the tarnish, you can finish by polishing the handle with a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Selecting the right product for your particular material will ensure a smooth and shiny finish that lasts for years.
It can be a hassle to experience a squeaky or stiff door handle however, this issue is usually easily fixed. Look to see whether there are any tiny objects or debris stuck in the locking mechanism. This could be the cause of your issue. If this isn't the case, you may require lubricating the door handle's internal workings to resolve the issue.
WD-40 is an all-purpose product that has an exclusive formula that performs quickly to help you lubricate your equipment. Applying a liberal amount of the liquid to your door handle will assist it move easily and stop squeaking. You can also use a flexible Straw to get into all the tiny nooks and crannies on your French door handle, so you don't miss a spot.
While replacing handles for French doors is relatively simple but you should be careful when drilling holes for new handles. This is because different designs for doors will have a range of holes in the door and frame, so it's important to ensure that the holes are matched when fitting the new handles. It is also important to ensure that the cylinder pin is fitted correctly and is the piece of metal that runs through the entire lock mechanism of your door.