Door Handle Replacement
Door handles appear to be a small detail however, if you don't like the appearance of the handles or are finding them difficult to use and use, you should consider replacing them. Installing window handles on your door is simple if you've got patience.
Modern door handles are often equipped with cover plates that conceal the screws to give them an attractive look. However, you'll have to attach them separately if the new handle doesn't already have them.
Remove the old Handle
Door handles are not only an important aesthetic addition to your home but they're also vital for safety since they let you lock and unlock your door. However, over time your door handle can lose its grip, feel loose, or appear old and worn. This is an indication that it's time to replace it.
One of the first indications that your door handle is in need of replacing is when it becomes difficult to operate. This is a serious problem as you will no longer be able to lock or unlock the door, which could put you and your family at risk.
Another reason to replace the door handle is if it's damaged or broken. A damaged or broken door handle can be very dangerous, especially in the event that your children or senior family members struggle to open it, and get trapped within. It's easy to replace a broken handle on doors.
Modern door handles are typically standard sizes and will fit any door. If you're not sure if your new door handle will work, take off the old one and measure its housing holes. This will let you purchase the right size door handle.
The easiest method to remove the handle from your door is to unscrew it from the door. This is typically done with the screw driver. Some door handles have an enclosure plate that hides the screws that mount them. It is necessary to remove it to get to the screws. After you've removed the old handle, take an outline of how the spindle is connected to ensure you are able to align it when you fit your new one.
Alternately, you can take off your door handle by unscrewing it from the latch mechanism. You can make use of a screwdriver to take off the door handle. However, you will have to locate the tiny latch that is located on the edge cut piece. After you have removed the latch, take off the handle and strike plate. Then, you can remove the latch from the edge of the door.
The Strike Plate
If you are replacing the handle, you'll need to replace the latch plate that holds the hole that the door's latch hooks into when it closes. The packaging that the new handles arrive with will offer two latch plates: either a rectangular or a circular one (see the above diagram that outlines the parts of the door handle). If you have an rectangular latch plate, you can replace it with a round one. This will let the latch hook onto the strike plate, making the handle easier.
The first step is to unscrew the screw that's holding the old latch plate in place. The screws are typically tight and require a bit of force to loosen them. If you can, it might be beneficial to have another person help with this process.
After the screws have been removed the latch will slide out of the door with ease. If it's stuck or won't move then use a small nail file to scrape the edges of the latch plate. This may help free the plate up.
You can now move on to making the new door strike plate for installation. Attach the latch plate to the doorjamb using the wood screws that came with your new handles. Don't over tighten your screws because this could damage the strike plate.
If you're unsure if the latch plate is in the right position You can try closing and then opening the door to determine whether it latches and closes correctly. If not, you will need to adjust the strikeplate up or down or forward or back until the door closes correctly.
If the door still moves or jiggles, then you may have to expand your latch hole on the strike plate. This is more prevalent with older doors, but could also be caused by wear and tear, hinge mortises that are not deep enough or are not sized correctly for the latch, or because of damaged or broken strike plate. If this is the case, follow the same procedure as adjusting the strike plate, but using a metal file instead of the hammer and chisel.
Eliminating the Latch
The latch is the metal piece that is angled that slides through the hole in the inner edge of your door. When you turn the handle, it pushes this latch forward, allowing you to open the door. It also hooks into a hole in the frame of the door to keep the door closed. If your door shakes when you close, an upgrade to the latch could be all you need to correct the issue.
The screws that support the door latch are hard to spot however, you can put a screwdriver in a small hole in the trim plate, and then pull the latch off. After taking off the trim plate you should be able to remove the latch, as well as the bolts that hold it, as well as the spindle in position.
If the latch isn't able to release it is suggested to use a paper clip or a tool to spring it loose from the handle mechanism. Insert the item into the slot for the latch that is recessed. gently twist or jiggle it until you feel the handle and latch begin to split. You may have to do this several times before the latch is loose enough to pull out.
You should be able to slide the new latch into its slot without problems after you have removed the old one. Make sure the latch is properly positioned in the slot and aligned with the screw chambers and then use your new screws to secure it to the strike plate and door frame.
Check the backset of the current handle (the distance between the center of the large hole in the front of the door and the edge) prior to installing the new handle. Verify that the size of the latch of the new handle is in line with the measurement.
If you are replacing the handle or latch or handle, or if your previous lock cylinder is damaged then you'll need an entirely new one. If you're not changing locks, the new latch will fit in your existing recess and will be compatible with your current keys. Select a latch with rectangular cover plates to match your old handles.
Remove the cover plate
Door handles may begin to look shabby over time However, if you replace them with a contemporary lever on rose design it's an easy and quick DIY project to decorate and will improve the overall look of your home. You can buy complete sets of escutcheons, the escutcheons as well as privacy adaptors and escutcheons.
To replace the door handle inside take off the cover plate (or rose) that covers the screws and mechanism. Look for a release tab on the plate and use a flathead screwdriver to pop it off the knob. It may have an opening along one side or be secured by pins.
Once the cover plate is removed, remove the screw that holds the interior handle in place and put it aside. Remove the screws that secure both the inner and outer plates. You can loosen them by using a Philips Screwdriver. Remove the plates that hold the inner plate and latch from the door. Place them aside.
Most doors have an opening between the jamb of the door and the inner edge of the frame that allows for a handle, but not all do. If it doesn't then you'll have to drill a hole into the door to install the new handle. This is the same process as opening a locked door, but you will need to be extra careful not to harm the door or frame.
After the holes are drilled then you'll need to install new door knob screws. Be sure to purchase the same size as the previous ones, so that you don't end up with a handle that's too tight or loose. Installing a new latch and strike rod is also necessary. These aren't included in most door handle sets.
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