French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles serve a crucial function, shielding your home from elements outside. Door handles are also a notable feature that can set the mood for your interior design.
Most French doors come with two handles: one functional and one decorative. The non-functional handle is commonly called a"dummy.
Replacement
A new handle can be an affordable method to change the appearance of French doors. If you're remodeling or replacing older 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. The handles have a brushed surface which is resistant to fingerprints and less likely to show scratches or rust as time passes.
You can find handle sets in different designs and finishes, so you're certain to find something that matches your style and decor. Some handle styles are more attractive than others, while others include a lock to provide extra security. Key-operated handles are available which are ideal for homes with small children. Certain handles are more expensive than others, however it's important to consider your budget when choosing the right set.
Before purchasing a handle, decide what type of handle will work best for your French doors. If you have an inside door that open independently and you want to have two handles. One handle can be locked and the other won't. This will help you decide if you require a handle that rotates or a fixed one. It's also necessary to determine whether you would like the door to to lock from both the inside and outside.
You'll need to use an external lock to open doors that require keys. You can get a basic Yale-style lock or a more sophisticated multipoint locking system that will ensure that your French doors safe. Certain locks allow you to lock the top and bottom of the door at once and some 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 actuator slot. It's a cylindrical slot that connects to the latch. You can usually find a hole in the door frame for this, however it's essential to take your measurements carefully and employ a spirit level to ensure the holes are level and straight. With your handle, it is recommended to be provided with a hole-boring tool that will aid you in taking the proper measurements.
Installation
While door handles might seem as if they're just a few accessories but they play a crucial part in your french doors' functionality as well as security, and even aesthetics. It is important to select high-quality handles that will endure regular use and don't require replacement or maintained often.
Depending on the configurations you'd like and the purpose of your door, you may require different handles. The process of installing them is almost identical, irrespective of the design or function you choose. You'll need to remove the handles you have already installed and clean the area you plan to install the new ones. Make holes in the door where you want to install the handle set. Follow the directions that came along with your hardware to ensure that you can drill the holes properly to allow the lock mechanism to fit.
Then, you can insert the lock bolt into the hole that is on the edges of the doors and connect it to the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical piece that has a slot through which the bolt goes. Some handle designs may require you to insert the bolt before the actuator, so make certain to read the instructions if you're unsure about the correct order to put it together.
Then french door glass replacement can screw the plate in place to cover the latching mechanisms as well as the locking mechanisms of the active side. You should then test the latch and lock to ensure that they function as intended. Once you're satisfied then repeat the process on the mock side of the door to put in the handle that is not functional.
During the process, it's crucial to take your time and be cautious. You could end with handles that are not functional or look great if you rush the process. You should always hire an expert to ensure best outcomes. You'll then be able enjoy your beautiful french doors for years to come.
Compatibility
The kind of handle you select for your french doors will be contingent on how you intend to use them. If you intend to use them as closets, you might want to use decorative handles instead of locking hardware. If you're using them to bedrooms or dining areas However, you'll require locking hardware that allows for easy use while also providing security against forced entry. The handle you select for your french door should also be compatible with the locks already installed. Get a professional's help to make sure that the lock is easy to use. CD Windows has experts who can assist you in choosing the right handle.
There are a variety of options when it comes to French Door Handles. Some French door handles have integrated locking systems, removing the requirement for a separate locking system. Some have deadbolts and latches that are handle activated for extra security. In any case, you'll want to be sure that the handles you choose are compatible with the hardware you already have and will be compatible with the door's style and design.
Another aspect to consider is whether you would like the handles to lock both sides or just one side. French doors are two doors connected together, so they need a different mechanism than single doors. If you're looking for a solution that locks on both sides, you'll need handles with a lock specifically designed to work with double doors.
In the majority of cases, you'll notice that the handles you attach on the active French Door have an opening in the plates to accommodate the latch and bolt for locking. The handles that are dummy are not functional and purely decorative. These handles are usually used in areas that aren't open frequently, such as bedrooms and bathrooms.
Maintenance
Door handles are among the most used parts of your doors, which is why it is important to take care of them. As time passes, they may get stained or tarnished. They may also lose their shine. The right cleaning solution can restore them to their original glory. The most common and gentlest cleaner is an mild soap solution but you should rinse and dry off all water afterward to avoid corrosion and damage.
Brass handles are especially prone to tarnishing, but you can reduce the chance of this happening by keeping them clean. To remove dirt and dust, first rinse the brass surface with warm tap water. Then use a soft cloth. Make a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice to get rid of any tarnish. After you have removed the tarnish, you can finish off by polishing the handle using a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Making use of the right cleaner for your particular material will ensure a smooth and shiny finish that will last for many years.
A squeaky or stiff door handle can be extremely annoying, but it's a problem that is often easily fixed. The first step is to ensure that there aren't any small objects or debris that have gotten caught in the door's locking mechanism which could be the cause of your issue. If this is not the case, you may have to grease the inside of your door handle to fix the problem.
WD-40 is an all-purpose product that has a specialist formula that works quickly to help you lubricate your equipment. Applying a generous amount of the liquid on your door handle will help it move easily and stop squeaking. You can also use a flexible Straw to reach all the tiny nooks and crannies on your French door handle to ensure you don't miss a area.
While replacing the handle of a French door is relatively simple but you should be careful when drilling holes for new handles. This is because different styles for doors have a variety of holes in the frame and door and frame, making it crucial to make sure that the holes match when putting on the new handles. It is also important to ensure that the cylinder pin is fitted properly and is the piece of metal that runs through the whole lock mechanism of your door.