French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles are essential to protect your home from outside elements. They're also a popular design feature that can set the tone for your home's aesthetic.
Most French doors have two handles, one that's functional and the other is purely 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 appearance of French doors. If you're renovating or replacing doors that are older it is essential to choose a high-quality handle that are able to withstand the repeated use and the elements. The most durable handles are made of stainless steel since it is antibacterial and easy to clean. They also feature an brushed finish that is resistant to fingerprints and is less likely to show rust or scratches over time.
You can find handle sets in various styles and finishes, so you're sure to find something that complements your style and decor. french door repair are more decorative than others, while others have an integrated lock for additional security. There are even key-operated handles, which are ideal for homes with small children. Some handles are more expensive than others, but it's important to consider your budget when selecting a set.
Choose the best configuration for your French door before you buy the handle. If you have an interior door that open independently, you may want to install two handles. One handle will lock and the other will not. This will determine whether you require a turning handle or a fixed handle. You'll need to decide if you wish to be able lock the door from the inside as well as the outside.
You'll require locks to open external doors that require a key. You can pick a simple Yale lock or a multipoint locking system to secure your French doors. Certain systems let you lock the top and bottom of the door at once while some require 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 cylindrical insert which connects the latch. You'll usually find holes in the door frame for this, but it's important to measure with care and make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the holes are level and straight. With your handle, it is recommended to receive a hole-boring tool to aid you in taking the proper measurements.
Installation
Door handles may seem like minor accessories but they are crucial to the functionality, security, and even aesthetics of your french doors. It's the reason it's essential to choose handles of high-quality that will stand up to regular use and don't require frequent replacement or repairs.
Depending on your desired configurations and the purpose behind your doors, you could require different kinds of handles. The installation process is nearly identical, regardless of the style or function you choose. First, you must take off the handles that are currently in place and clean the area where the new ones will be placed. The next step is to drill holes into the door in which you intend to place the new set of handles. Follow the instructions that came along with your hardware so that you can bore the holes properly to allow the lock mechanism fit.
Then, insert the lock bolt into the hole at the edges of the doors and connect it with the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical piece with an opening that the bolt can go through. Certain handle designs might require the bolt to be inserted prior to the actuator, so make sure to consult your instructions if you're unsure about the correct order to put it together.
After that, fix the plate to cover the latching and locking mechanisms on the active side of the door. Test the latch and lock. Once you're satisfied you're satisfied, repeat the procedure on the dummy side of the door to install the handle that is not functional.
It's important to be patient and attentive throughout the process. If you rush through the process you could end with a set handles that don't function correctly or look great. You should always hire an expert to ensure best results. You'll be able to enjoy your gorgeous french doors for years to come.
Compatibility
The kind of handle you select for your french doors will be contingent on the way you plan to make use of them. If you're using them for closets, for example you might not need locks, and instead, decorative handles are sufficient. If you're using them to bedrooms or dining rooms however, you'll need locking hardware that allows to be used with ease while providing security against forced entry. The handle you select for your french doors must also be able to accommodate the type of locks that are already installed. Talk to a professional to ensure that the lock is easy to operate. CD Windows has experts who can assist you in choosing the correct handle.
There are many choices when it comes to French Door Handles. Some come with built-in locks that eliminate the necessity of an additional lock system. Some locks and latches are operated by the handle for additional security. In any case, you'll need to ensure that the handles you choose are compatible with your existing hardware and will be compatible with the door's style and style.
Another thing to think about is whether you want the handle sets to be able to be secured on both sides or just one side. This is due to the fact that French doors are comprised of two doors that are connected to each other, so they require a totally different method of locking unlike single-doors. If you're looking for an option that locks both sides, then you'll require a handle that has locks that is designed for double doors.
In most cases, you will find that the handles you install on the active French Door have an opening in the plates to accept the latch and lock bolt. The dummy handles are non-functional and are only decorative. These handles are used in places that aren't opened often, like bathrooms and bedrooms.
Maintenance
It is crucial to take care of the handles on your doors because they are the most frequently used component of your doors. Over time, they could get stained or tarnished. They may also lose their shine. The correct cleaning solution will restore them to their previous splendor. The most common and gentlest cleaning solution is a mild soap solution however, you must clean and dry off all moisture afterward to avoid damage and corrosion.
Brass handles are particularly susceptible to tarnishing however, you can minimize this risk by keeping them clean. Begin by rinsing the brass surface with warm water and then a soft cloth to eliminate dirt and dust. Make a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice to remove any tarnish. After removing the tarnish, you can polish the handle with a stainless-steel-specific cleaner. Using the right product for your material ensures a smooth glossy finish that will last for a long time.
It can be frustrating to have a squeaky or stiff door handle, but this is something that's usually easily fixed. First, make sure that there aren't any small objects or debris that have gotten caught in the door's locking mechanism and this could be the reason for your problem. If this isn't the case, you may need to lubricate your door handle's inner workings to fix the problem.
WD-40 is a multi-purpose product with a specific formula that allows you to easily lubricate your hardware. Applying large amounts of the liquid will let your door handle move easily, and prevent it from making noises. Use a flexible straw or a brush to reach all the crevices and nooks of your French door handle.
While replacing a French door handle is fairly simple however, you must be careful when drilling holes for the new handles. It's because different designs of doors have different holes in the frame and door. This makes it important to make sure that the holes are matched when installing the new handles. It's also important to check that the cylinder pin is fitted properly and is the piece of metal that connects the entire lock mechanism on your door.