French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles play an essential role, protecting your home from elements outside. They're also a popular design element that can set the tone for your interior aesthetic.
Most French doors have two handles, one for use and one for decoration. This non-functional handle is commonly called a dummy handle.
Replacement
A new handle is an affordable option to improve the look of French doors. If your doors are older and need to be replaced or you're remodeling your home, it's essential to select high-quality handles that can be able to withstand repeated use and weather the elements. The most durable handles are made of stainless steel because it is antibacterial and easy to clean. The handles have a brushed surface that is impervious to fingerprints and less likely to rust or show scratches over time.
Handle sets are available in a broad range of styles and finishes. You're sure you'll find something that matches your style and decor. Certain styles of handles are more attractive while others have an integrated lock for extra security. Key-operated handles are available which are ideal for homes with young children. Some handles are more costly than others, and it's crucial to take your budget into consideration when choosing the right set.
Decide what configuration is best for your French door prior to buying a handle. If you have interior doors that open in a different way from one another and you want one handle that locks, and one that does not. This will determine if you require a turn handle or a fixed handle. You'll have to decide if you wish to to lock the door from the inside or the outside.
Most external doors require keys to unlock them, therefore you'll require an entry point that allows you to accomplish this. You can get a basic Yale-style lock, or an advanced multipoint locking system that will ensure that your French doors safe. Certain systems allow you to lock the top of the door and the bottom and some require you to unlock the top and bottom.
When replace french door glass for installing your new handle, first locate the slot for actuator. It's a cylindrical slot that connects to the latch. It is possible to locate holes for this in the door frame but you must measure it carefully and utilize the spirit level to ensure the holes are straight. It is also recommended to get an appropriate hole-boring template when you purchase your handle to assist you to make the correct measurements.
Installation
While handles for doors may seem like minor accessories however they play an important part in your french doors' function as well as security, and even aesthetics. It's the reason it's essential to choose high quality handles that can stand up to regular use and don't require frequent replacement or repair.
Based on the configuration you want and the function of your doors, you may require different types of handles. But, regardless of your preferred style and function the process of installation is almost identical. First, you need 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 mount the new handle set. Follow the instructions included with your hardware to ensure that you can drill the holes correctly to let the lock mechanism to fit.
Then, insert the lock bolt into the hole at the edge of the doors and connect it to the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical part with a slot where the bolt can pass through. Certain designs of handles may require you to insert the bolt before the actuator, so make certain to read the instructions if you're unclear regarding the order in which you should assemble.
Once you've done that, screw the plate into place to cover the latching and locking mechanisms on the active side of the door. Then, test the lock and latch to ensure that they function properly. Repeat the procedure on the dummy door side to install the handle that isn't functional.
During the process, you need to take your time and be cautious. You could end with handles that aren't functional or do not appear attractive if you hurry through the process. You should always seek out an expert to get the best results. In the end, you'll be in a position to enjoy your gorgeous french doors for many years to come!
Compatibility
The type of handle that you select for your French doors will depend on what you plan to use them for. If you're using them to create closets, for instance it is unlikely that you'll need locks, and instead, decorative handles are sufficient. If you plan to use them in a dining room, you'll require locking hardware that is simple to use and secure against forced entry. The handle you select for your French doors should also be able to work with the kind of locks already in place. Selecting the wrong handle can make the lock difficult or impossible to operate, so it's important that you consult with a professional before making your shop. An experienced expert such as the ones at CD Windows will be able to help you find the correct handle for your doors.
There are a variety of choices when it comes to French Door Handles. Some French door handles have integrated locking systems, removing the need for a separate locking system. Others have latches and deadbolts that are activated by the handle for added security. You'll need to ensure that the handles you pick will be compatible with your existing hardware, and also will work with the type and design of the door.
You should also think about whether you would like your handle sets to be locked on one side or both sides. French doors are two doors that are connected, so they need an entirely different mechanism than single doors. If you're seeking a solution that locks both sides, you'll need handles with a lock designed to work with double doors.
In most cases, you'll notice that the handles you install on the active French Door have an opening in the plates to accept the latch and bolt for locking. The handles that are dummy are not functional and purely decorative. These handles are typically used in areas that don't require frequent opening, like bedrooms and bathrooms.
Maintenance
It is crucial to take care of your door handles because they are the most commonly used part of your doors. Over time they can become tarnished, discoloured or lose their shine completely. The right cleaning solution will restore them to their former splendor. The most common and gentlest cleaning solution is mild soap solutions however, you must clean and dry off all moisture afterward to avoid damage and corrosion.
Brass handles are especially prone to tarnishing, but you can reduce the risk by keeping them clean. Start by rinsing the brass surface with warm water, then a soft cloth to eliminate dirt and dust. Make a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice to get rid of any tarnish. After you have removed the tarnish, finish by polishing the handle with a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Using the right product for your material will ensure a smooth and shiny finish that lasts for a long time.
It can be a hassle to have a noisy or stiff door handle however, it's typically fixable. First, make sure whether there aren't any tiny objects or debris that have gotten caught in the locking mechanism of the door, as this could be the reason for the issue. If this is not the case, you may need to lubricate the inside of your door handle to resolve the issue.
WD-40 is a multi-purpose item with a special formula that helps you easily lubricate your hardware. Applying generous amounts of the liquid will allow your door handle to move effortlessly, and will stop it from sounding squeaky. Use a flexible straw or a brush to get into all the nooks and crevices of your French door handle.
While replacing handles for French doors is relatively simple but you should be careful when drilling holes for the new handles. It's because different door designs have different holes in the frame and door. This is why it's important to ensure that the holes match when installing the new handles. It's also important to check that the cylinder pin fits properly as it is the piece of steel that runs through the entire lock mechanism of your door.