French Door Handle Replacement – Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles serve a crucial role in protecting your home from outside elements. Door handles are also a notable feature that can set the mood for your interior design.
The majority of French doors are equipped with two handles: one that's functional, and the other that's decorative. This handle that is not functional is often called a dummy handle.
Replacement
If you're looking to enhance the look of your French doors, a new handle is a cost-effective option to achieve this. Whether your doors are older and need to be replaced or you're planning to remodel your home, it's essential to select high quality handles that will stand up to repeated use and withstand the elements. The best handles are constructed of stainless steel which is antibacterial and is 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 styles and finishes, so you're bound to find one that fits your style and decor. Certain types of handles are more attractive than others, while some have an integrated lock for additional security. Key-operated handles are available which are perfect for homes with children. Some handles are more costly than others, so it's important to consider your budget when choosing the right set.
Determine the best configuration for your French door prior to purchasing a handle. If you have an inside doors that open on their own it is possible to install two handles. One handle can be locked while the other one won't. This will determine if you require a turn handle or a fixed. You'll have to decide if you want to lock the door from the inside or the outside.
Most external doors require a key to open them, so you'll need an entry point that allows you to accomplish this. You can choose a simple Yale-style lock, or an advanced 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 bottom.
Locate the actuator slot prior to installing your new handle. It's a cylindrical insert that connects to the latch. It's possible to find an opening for this in the door frame, however, you must be sure to measure and use the spirit level to make sure that the holes are in a straight line. You should also receive a hole-boring template with your handle to assist you determine the right measurements.
Installation
While handles for doors may seem like a minor accessory but they play a crucial part in your french doors' function, security and even aesthetics. It is important to select top-quality handles that are able to be used regularly and won't need to be replaced or maintained frequently.
Depending on your desired configurations and the function of your doors, you might require different types of handles. But regardless of french doors repair and purpose the process of installation is almost identical. The first step is to remove the existing handles and clean up the area where the new ones will be put. The next step is to drill holes into the door where you plan to place the new set of handles. Follow the instructions that came with your hardware to ensure that you can bore the holes correctly to let the lock mechanism fit.
After that, put the lock bolt into the hole in the edge of the door, and connect it to the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical insert that has a slot which the bolt passes. If you're not sure about the assembly order you should consult the instructions.
Then you can screw the plate in place to protect the latching mechanisms and locking mechanisms of the active side. Test the latch and lock. If you're satisfied you're satisfied, repeat the procedure on the mock side of the door to install the handle that is not functional.
During the process, you need to take your time and be mindful. You might end having handles that aren't functional or look good if you rush the process. It is recommended to hire an expert to ensure best results. You'll then be able enjoy your beautiful french doors for many years to be.
Compatibility
The kind of handle you select for your french doors will depend on how you intend to utilize them. If you're using them to create closets, for example, you may not want them to lock and decorative handles will suffice. If you're using them for a dining room or bedroom, however, you will require locking hardware that permits for ease of use while providing security against forced entry. The handle you choose for your french doors must also be able to accommodate the kind of locks that are already installed. Talk to a professional to make sure that the lock is easy to use. CD Windows has experts who can assist you in choosing the correct handle.
When it is about French Door Handles, there are a myriad of options. Some are equipped with locks that are built-in which eliminate the requirement for a separate lock system. Others have latches and deadbolts that can be controlled by a handle to provide additional security. In any case, you'll need to make sure that the handles you pick are compatible with the hardware you already have and will work well with the door's style and style.
Another factor to consider is whether you'd like the handles to lock both sides or just one side. French doors are two doors connected together, so they need an entirely different mechanism than single doors. If you are looking for a solution that locks both sides, then you'll require a handle that has locks specifically made for double doors.
In most cases, the handles you install on the active French Door will have openings in the plates that can accept the latch and lock bolt. The dummy handles are non-functional and purely decorative. These handles are commonly used in areas that do not need to be opened often, like bedrooms and bathrooms.
Maintenance
It is essential to take care of your door handles because they are the most commonly used component of your doors. As time passes, they may get stained or tarnished. They may even lose their shine. The right cleaning solution can restore them to their original splendor. In general, mild soap is the most effective and most secure cleaner. However, you should always dry your clothes and rinse off any remaining moisture to prevent corrosion.
Brass handles are particularly susceptible to tarnishing however, you can minimize 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. Then, make a mixture of baking soda and lemon to scrub away any tarnish. After you have removed the tarnish, finish off by polishing the handle with a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Using the right product for your material will guarantee an even and smooth finish that will last for many years.
A squeaky or rigid door handle can be incredibly difficult to deal with, but it's an issue which is usually fixable. First, you should check whether there aren't any small objects or debris entangled in the locking mechanism of the door, as this could be to blame for your problem. If this isn't the case, it might be that you have to grease the inner workings of the door handle in order to fix it.
WD-40 is a multi-purpose product with a special formula that helps you get your hardware lubricated quickly. Applying liberal amounts of the liquid will let your door handle move effortlessly, and will stop it from squeaking. You can also use a Flexible Straw to reach all the little nooks and crannies on your French door handle, so you don't miss any area.
While replacing a handle for a French door is fairly easy, you'll need be careful when drilling holes for the new handles. This is because different styles for doors have a variety of holes in the frame and door which is why it's crucial to match up the holes when installing the new handles. It's also important to check that the cylinder pin is fitted properly, which is the piece of steel that connects the entire lock mechanism on your door.