French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles play a vital role in protecting your home from the elements outside. Door handles are also a popular feature that can set a tone for your interior aesthetic.
Most French doors are configured with two handles, one that is functional and the other is purely decorative. This handle that is not functional is usually known as a"dummy.
replace window with french doors cost uk www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk could be an affordable option to improve the appearance of French doors. If you are remodeling or replacing doors that are older, it is important 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 because it is antibacterial and easy to clean. The handles are brushed which is resistant to fingerprints and less likely to rust or show scratches over time.
Handle sets are available in a wide variety of styles and finishes. You'll surely find something to match your style and decor. Certain styles of handles are more appealing than others, and some include a lock to provide extra security. You can even get keys-operated handles that are great for homes with children. Certain handles are more expensive than others, so it is important to be aware of your budget when selecting the right set.
Determine the best configuration for your French door prior to buying a handle. If you have interior doors that open on their own it is possible to have two handles. One handle will lock while the other one won't. This will determine if 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 the inside and outside.
Most exterior doors require keys to unlock them, so you'll need a lock that allows you to accomplish this. You can choose a simple Yale-style lock, or an sophisticated multipoint locking system that will ensure that your French doors secure. Certain locks allow you to lock the top and bottom of the door simultaneously while some require you unlock both the top and bottom.
When you're ready to install your new handle, first find the actuator slot. It's a cylindrical slot that connects to the latch. You'll usually find holes in the door frame for this, however it's essential to measure with care and make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the holes are straight and consistent. With your handle, you should be provided with a hole-boring tool that will assist you in taking the correct measurements.
Installation
Door handles may seem like small accessories, but they're essential to the function as well as security and aesthetics of your french doors. It's the reason it's essential to select high-quality handles that can withstand regular use and won't require frequent replacement or repair.
Based on the design you prefer and the intended use of your door, you may need to install different handles. But regardless of the style and purpose the process of installation is similar. You will need to remove your existing handles and clean the area you plan to install the new handles. The next step is to drill holes into the door in which you intend to install the new set of handles. Follow the instructions included with your hardware so that you can bore the holes properly to allow the lock mechanism to fit.
Then, insert the lock bolt into the hole that is on the edge of the doors and connect it to the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical part with an opening that the bolt can go through. If you're unsure about the order of assembly, consult your instructions.
Then screw the plate into place to cover the latching mechanisms as well as the locking mechanisms on the active side. Test the latch and lock. After you're satisfied with the results then repeat the process on the dummy side of the door, and install the non-functional handle.
During the process, it's crucial to take your time and be careful. You may end having handles that are not functional or do not look great if you rush the process. This is why you should employ a professional who can provide you with the best results. You'll then be able to enjoy your gorgeous french doors for years to be.
Compatibility
The kind of handle you choose for your French doors will depend on what you plan to use them for. If you intend to use them for storage, you might choose to use decorative handles instead of locking hardware. If you intend to put them in a dining or bedroom room, you'll require locks that are simple to use and secure against forced entry. The handle that you choose for your French door must also be compatible with locks already in place. Talk to a professional to make sure the lock is easy to operate. A knowledgeable expert like the ones at CD Windows will be able to help you find the perfect handle for your door.
There are a variety of alternatives when it comes down to French Door Handles. Certain handles for French doors have integrated locking systems, removing the need for a separate locking system. Certain latches and locks can be activated by the handle to provide extra security. You should ensure that the handles you select will work with your existing hardware and will also work well with the style and design of the door.
Another factor to consider is whether you want the handles to be secured on both sides or just one. French doors are two doors joined together which means they require a different mechanism than single doors. If you're seeking a solution that locks both sides, you'll need an entire set of handle sets with a lock designed to be compatible with double doors.
In most instances, 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 usually used in areas that aren't used often, like bedrooms and bathrooms.
Maintenance
Door handles are among the most used parts of your doors, therefore it is important to take care of them. They can over time become tarnished, discoloured or even lose their shine entirely. The correct cleaning solution will bring them back to their previous glory. The most common and gentlest cleaning solution is mild soap solutions but you should clean and dry off all water afterward to avoid damage and corrosion.
Brass handles are especially susceptible to tarnishing. It is possible to reduce the risk by keeping them clean. Begin by washing the brass surface with warm water, then a soft cloth to get rid of dust and dirt. Make a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice to remove any tarnish. After you have removed the tarnish, you can finish by polishing the handle using a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Using the right product for your particular material will ensure a smooth and shiny finish that lasts for years.
It can be a hassle to experience a squeaky or stiff door handle, however, this issue is generally fixable. First, you should check that there aren't any small objects or debris entangled in the locking mechanism of the door which could be the cause of your issue. If this isn't the case, you may have to grease the door handle's internal workings to solve the issue.
WD-40 is an all-purpose product that has an exclusive formula that performs quickly to help you lubricate your equipment. Applying liberal amounts of the liquid will let your door handle move smoothly, and stop it from sounding squeaky. Use a flexible swivel or a brush to reach all the crevices and nooks of your French door handle.
While replacing a french door handle is fairly simple, you'll need to be careful when drilling holes for the new handles. It's because different door designs have different holes in the frame and door. This makes it important to ensure that the holes match when installing the new handles. Make sure that the cylinder pin, which is the metal piece that runs through the entire lock mechanism, is fitted properly.