10 Unexpected Door Handle Replacement Tips

Door Handle replacement upvc door handles

Door handles appear to be an insignificant thing but if you aren't happy with the appearance of the handles or find them difficult to use and use, you should consider replacing them. With a bit of patience, you can install a new handle in no time.

Modern door handles are usually equipped with cover plates which hide the screws for an attractive look. If the new handle doesn't have them already attached, you will have to attach them separately.

Remove the handle that was previously used

Door handles are not only an important aesthetic addition to your home, but they're also crucial for safety as they allow you to lock and unlock your door. Over time the door handle can start to lose its grip or feel a bit loose. It might also appear old and worn. This is a sign that it's time to replace the door handle.

One of the first indications that your door handle needs replacing is if it's becoming difficult to operate. This is a serious issue because you won't be able to lock or unlock the door, which could put you and your family at risk.

Another reason to replace your door handle is if it's damaged or broken. A damaged or broken door handle is dangerous, especially for elderly or children members who might struggle to open it. They may get trapped. It's easy to replace a damaged handle on the door.

Most modern door handles are standard size and therefore are suitable for any door. If you're not sure if the new door handle you're buying will work, try removing the old one and determining the holes in its housing. This will help you buy the right door handle.

It is easiest to remove the door handle by unscrewing it from the door. This is usually done with a screw driver. However, some door handles have the cover plate which hides the mounting screws, so you'll need to pry off this to access the screws underneath. After removing the handle that was previously used, take note of the way in which the spindle is attached. This will aid in aligning the new handle.

You can also remove the door handle by depressing the latch mechanism. You can use a screwdriver for removing the door handle. However, you will have to locate the small latch that is located on the edge trim piece. Once you've removed the latch, you can unscrew the handle from the strike plate and then remove the latch off the door's edge.

The Strike Plate

If you are replacing the handle, you'll be required to replace the latch plate that holds the hole that the door's latch is inserted into when it closes. The new handles will come with two latch plates which are a circular and a rectangular plate (see the image above which shows the various parts of the door handle). If you have an rectangular latch plate, you can replace it with a circular one. This will allow the latch to hook into the strike plate, making the handle easier.

The first step is to unhook the screw that is holding the old latch plate. The screws are usually quite tight and require a lot of force to loosen them. If you can, it might be beneficial to have another person help with this process.

The latch plate should lift itself out of the door after the screws have been removed. If the latch plate is stuck or refuses to move, use a small hammer to scrape the edges. This can sometimes open the plate.

Now, you can proceed to preparing the new door strike plate to be installed. Install the latch plate in the door jamb using the screws that were included with the new handles. Be cautious not to tighten too much the screws, as this can cause damage to the strike plate.

If you are not sure whether the latch plate is in the proper position, close and open the door to check whether it latches and closes correctly. If not then you'll need to adjust the strikeplate upwards or down or forward or back until the door shuts properly.

If the door is jiggling or moving, it may be necessary to expand the hole for the latch in the strike plate. This is more frequent on older doors. It can be caused by wear and tear, hinges that are too shallow, the wrong size latch or damaged strike plate. If this is the case then you should use a filing made of metal instead of a chisel, or hammer to adjust the strike plate.

Remove the Latch

The latch is a bent metal piece that slides into and out of a hole on the inside of your door. The latch is pushed forward when you turn the handle. It also hooks in the door frame to ensure that the door stays closed. If your door shakes when you close it, changing the latch might be all that's needed to correct the issue.

The screws that hold the door latch are hard to spot however, you can use a screwdriver to make a small hole in the trim plate and then pry the latch off. Once you've removed the trim plate, it'll be simple to take off the latch as well as the remaining bolts that hold the spindle and latch in the position.

If the latch doesn't easily release, try using the clip of a paper or tool to spring it loose from the handle mechanism. Insert the item into the recessed latch slot and gently move it around until you feel the handle and latch begin to separate. You may need to repeat this several times before the latch becomes loose enough to allow it to be pulled out.

After the old latch has been removed, you should be able to move the new latch into the slot with no issues. Make sure the latch is properly positioned in the slot and is aligned with the screw chambers, and then use your new screws to fasten 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) before installing the new handle. Also, ensure that the size of the latch on the new handle is a good match to the measurement of your existing handle.

You'll require a brand new lock cylinder if you're replacing the handle and latch or if your current one is damaged. If you're not replacing a window handle the locks the new latch will fit into your existing recess and will work with your current keys. Select a latch with rectangular cover plates that match your old handles.

Removing the Cover Plate

Door handles can start to look shabby with time, but if you replace them with a contemporary lever-on-rose design, it's a quick and easy DIY and decorating project that will improve the overall look of your home. You can purchase complete sets that include escutcheons, privacy adaptors and escutcheons.

The first step in replacing an internal door handle is to remove the cover plate or rose, which hides the screws and the mechanism within. Find a release tab on the plate and make use of a flathead screwdriver to pop it off the knob. It may have an opening on one edge or be held in place by a pin.

Once the cover plate is removed take the screw that holds the interior handle in place and put it aside. Remove the screws that hold both the outer and inner plates. You can loosen them by using a Philips Screwdriver. Remove the inner plates and latch from the door. Place them aside.

Most doors have gaps between the door jamb and the edge of the frame, which allows for a handle, but not all have. If yours doesn't have a handle, you'll need to make a hole in the door for the new handle. It's the same procedure as opening a door locked, but you will need to be extra careful not to scratch the frame or door.

After drilling the holes, you'll need to install new door knob screws. Choose the same size as the old screws to ensure that you don't get the handle that is too loose or tight. You'll also have to install a new latch plate and strike rod, which aren't included with the majority of door handle sets.

If you're looking for a high-quality replacement handles for windows for your interior door handle set Try the Amazon's Choice FAERSI two-piece chrome-finished handle set. It's a factory fit and has received hundreds of 5-star reviews from happy customers. It's an excellent option for replacing worn out or damaged door hardware on your Chevy.