French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles are important for protecting your home against outside elements. Door handles are also a notable feature that can set a mood for your interior design.
Most French doors have two handles, one that is functional and one that's purely decorative. This handle that is not functional is often called a dummy handle.
Replacement
If you're looking to upgrade the look of your French doors, a new handle is a great option to achieve this. If you are remodeling or replacing doors that are older, it is important to choose high-quality handles that can withstand repeated use and the elements. The best handles are made of stainless steel as it is antibacterial and easy to clean. The handles are brushed that is resistant to fingerprints, and less likely to become rusty or show scratches as time passes.
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 have a more elegant look while others have an integrated lock to provide extra security. Key-operated handles are available which are ideal for homes with small children. Some handles are more expensive than others, so it's crucial to consider your budget when choosing the right set.
Before purchasing a handle, decide what design will best suit your French doors. If you have internal doors that open independently of each other and you want one handle that locks and one that does not. This will help you decide if you require a rotating handle or a fixed one. It is also important to decide whether you want the door to to be locked from both sides.
Most external doors require a key to unlock the door, so you'll need a lock that allows you to do this. You can choose a simple Yale-style lock, or an advanced multipoint locking system that will keep your French doors secure. Certain systems allow you to lock the top of the door and the bottom simultaneously while others require you to open both the top and bottom.
Locate the actuator slot prior to installing your new handle. This is a cylindrical insert which connects the latch. It's possible to find holes 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 you make the correct measurements.
Installation
While handles for doors may seem as if they're just a few accessories, they play a critical part in the functionality of your french doors as well as security, and even aesthetics. That's why it's important to choose handles of high-quality that will stand up to regular use and don't require regular replacement or repair.
Based on the design you want and the purpose of your door, you may require different handles. However regardless of your preferred style and function the process of installation is almost identical. You will need to remove your handles that are currently in use and clean the area where you intend to put in the new ones. The next step is to drill holes in the door where you intend to install the new handle set. Be sure to follow the directions included with the hardware to ensure that you drill the holes in a way that will allow the lock mechanism to fit correctly.
After that, insert the lock bolt through the hole in the edge of the door and then connect it to the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical component with a slot through which the bolt goes. Certain designs of handles may require you to insert the bolt before the actuator, so make certain to read the instructions if you're unsure regarding the order in which you should assemble.
Then screw the plate into place to protect the latching mechanisms and locking mechanisms on the active side. Test the lock and latch. After you're satisfied with the results then repeat the process on the fake side of the door to put in the non-functional handle.
During the process, it's crucial to take your time and be careful. You could end up with handles that are not functional or do not appear attractive if you hurry through the process. That's why you should always seek out a skilled professional who will give you the most effective results. You'll then be able to enjoy your beautiful french doors for many years to be.
Compatibility
The kind of handle you choose for your french doors will depend on the way you plan to use them. If you intend to use them for storage, you might want to use decorative handles instead of locking hardware. If you're using them to bedrooms or dining areas however, you'll need locking hardware that allows for easy use while also providing security against forced entry. The handle you select for your French door must also be compatible with locks already installed. Choosing the wrong kind of handle can cause the lock to be difficult or impossible to operate, so it is essential to consult with a professional prior to making a shop. An experienced expert such as the ones at CD Windows will be able to help you choose the perfect handle for your doors.
There are many options when it comes to French Door Handles. Certain French door handles come with built-in locking systems, eliminating the need for an additional locking system. Others have latches and deadbolts that are handle activated for extra security. You'll want to make sure that the handles you select will be compatible with your existing hardware and will also be compatible with the type and design of the door.
You should also consider whether you would like your handle sets to be locked on one or both sides. French doors are two doors connected together which means they require a different mechanism than single doors. If you're seeking a solution that locks on both sides, you'll require a set of handle sets with a lock that's designed to work with double doors.
In most cases, you'll notice that the handles you install onto the active French Door have an opening in the plates to accommodate the latch and the lock bolt. The dummy handles are non-functional and are purely decorative. These handles are commonly employed in areas that don't need to be opened often, like bedrooms and bathrooms.
Maintenance
It is essential to take care of your door handles since they are the most commonly used part of your doors. Over time, they can become tarnished or discoloured. They might even lose their shine. The correct cleaning solution will restore them to their previous glory. In general, the safest and gentlest cleaner is an mild soap solution but you should clean and dry off all water afterward to avoid damage and corrosion.
replacing glass in french door are particularly prone to tarnishing however you can lessen this risk by maintaining them clean. To remove dirt and dust first, wash the brass surface with warm tap water. Then, you can use a soft cloth. Prepare a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice to remove any tarnish. Once you've removed the tarnish, finish by polishing the handle with a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Selecting the right product for your material will guarantee an even and smooth finish that lasts for a long time.
A squeaky or stiff door handle can be incredibly difficult to deal with, but it's an issue that is often easily fixed. First, you should check whether there aren't any tiny objects or debris that have gotten caught in the locking mechanism of the door and this could be to blame for your issue. If this isn't the case, you may need to lubricate your door handle's inner workings to solve the issue.
WD-40 is an all-purpose product that has a specialist formula that works quickly to aid in lubricating your hardware. Applying a generous amount of the liquid to the door handle will allow it to move smoothly and stop squeaking. You can also use a flexible Straw to get into all the tiny nooks and crannies on your French door handle to ensure you don't miss any area.
While replacing a French door handle is a relatively easy process, you will need to be careful when drilling holes for new handles. This is due to the fact that different designs 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 fitting the new handles. It's also worth checking that the cylinder pin fits correctly as it is the metal piece that runs through the entire lock mechanism on your door.