This Is The History Of Door Handle Replacement In 10 Milestones
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 finding them difficult to use, it's worth replacing them. Installing a new door handle is simple if you have patience. Modern door handles are typically equipped with cover plates that conceal the screws, giving them a more attractive appearance. However, you'll need to attach them separately if your new handle doesn't have them attached already. Removing the old Handle The door handle is not only a decorative addition to your home It's also an element of security that allows you to lock and unlock your door. But, over time the door handle could lose its grip, appear loose, or look old and worn. This is an indication that it's time for a replacement. One of the first indications that your door handle requires replacing is when it becomes difficult to operate. This is a problem since it means that you can no longer lock or unlock your door which could create the risk of security for you and your family. Another reason to replace your door handle is when it's damaged or broken. A damaged or broken door handle could be extremely dangerous, particularly when your children or elderly family members struggle to open it and end up trapped inside. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix a damaged door handle by simply replacing the handle that was broken. The majority of modern door handles are standard size and so they will fit on any door. If you're not certain that your new door handle will work, remove the old one and measure its housing holes. This will help you buy the correct sized door handle. The easiest way to remove the door handle you have been using is to take it off of the door. This is typically done with a screw driver. However some door handles have an outer cover plate that hides the screws that mount them, so you'll have to cut off this cover plate to get access to the screws underneath. Once window handles have removed the old handle, take note of the way the spindle is attached to ensure you are able to align it when you fit your new one. Alternatively, you can remove your door handle by unscrewing it from the latch mechanism. This is usually done with a screwdriver but you'll need 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 remove the latch off the door's edge. Take off the Strike Plate When you replace your handle, you'll also be required to replace the latch plate that holds the hole that the door's latch is inserted into when it closes. The packaging that the new handles are packaged with will offer two different latch plates: one that is rectangular and the other a circular one (see the diagram above detailing the parts of the door handle). If your current latch plate is rectangular, swap it over to the round one so that the latch hooks onto the strike plate in a manner that makes the handle easier to use. The first step is to unscrew the screw that's holding the latch plate that was previously in place. The screws can be very tight, and may require some force to loosen. It is helpful to get a second person to assist with this task if you can. Once the screws are removed and the latch plate should slide out of the door easily. If it's stuck or won't move then use a small nail file to scrape the edges of the latch plate. This can help loosen the plate. Now, you can proceed to making the new door strike plate to be installed. Screw the latch plate into the door jamb using the screws that were included with your new handles. Do not tighten the screws too much as this can damage the strike plate. If you're not sure whether the latch plate is in the correct position, try closing and opening the door to determine whether it latches and closes correctly. If it doesn't, you'll need to adjust the strike plate up or down, or forward or back, until the door closes and latches correctly. If the door is jiggling or moving, you may need to enlarge the hole for the latch in the strike plate. This is more prevalent 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 due to damaged or broken strike plate that is damaged or broken. If this is the situation, follow the same procedure as adjusting the strike plate, but using the use of a metal file instead the hammer and chisel. Remove the Latch The latch is the angled metal piece that is able to move between the hole in the inner edge of your door. When you turn the handle, it pushes the latch forward which allows you to open the door. It also connects to an opening in the frame of the door to keep your door shut. If your door shakes when you close it, changing the latch may be the only thing needed to fix it. It's hard to see the screws that attach the latch to the door, but there's usually a tiny slot on the trim plate that permits you to insert a screwdriver and remove it. Once you've removed the trim plate, it should be simple to take off the latch as well as the remaining bolts that hold the spindle and latch in place. If the latch isn't easily removed using a paperclip or tool to remove it from the handle mechanism. Insert the item in the slot for the latch that is recessed, and gently twist it or jiggle until the handle and latch begin to separate. You may need to repeat this several times before the latch comes loose enough to allow it to be pulled out. After the old latch has been removed, you should be able to slide the new latch into the slot with no issues. Make sure that the latch is properly positioned in the slot and is aligned with the screw chambers, and then use your new screws to secure it to the strike plate and door frame. Before you install the new handle, make sure to measure your current backset (the distance from the center of the large hole on the front of the door to the edge). Make sure that the size of the latch of the new handle is equal to the measurement. If you are replacing the handle or latch, or if your old lock cylinder is damaged then you'll require an entirely new one. If you're not switching locks the new lock will fit in your existing recess and work with your existing keys. Choose a latch that has rectangular cover plates that match the handles you have. Then remove the Cover Plate You can replace your old door handles with a contemporary design of roses and levers to improve the look of your house. You can buy complete sets that include matching escutcheons and privacy adaptor kits. The first step in replacing an internal door handle is to remove the cover plate or rose, which covers the screws and the mechanism within. Use a flathead to remove the cover plate. It may have an opening along one side or be secured by a pin. After the cover plate is off, remove the screw that holds the inside handle in place and set it aside. Remove the screws that secure both the outer and inner plates. You can loosen them using the help of a Philips Screwdriver. Take the inner plates and latch from the door. Set them aside. Some doors don't have this gap. If yours does not have a handle, you'll need to make a hole in the door for the new handle. It's the same procedure as opening a door locked however you'll have to be extra cautious not to damage the frame or door. Installing new door knob screws is necessary after holes have been drilled. Purchase the same dimensions as your old screws to avoid getting a handle too tight or loose. Installing a new strike rod and latch is also necessary. These are not included in all door handle sets. If you're looking for a quality replacement for your interior door handle set Try the Amazon's Choice FAERSI two-piece chrome finish handle set. It's factory-fitted and has received hundreds five-star reviews. It's a great choice to replace worn or damaged interior door hardware on your Chevy.