Why Door Handle Replacement Is The Right Choice For You?

Why Door Handle Replacement Is The Right Choice For You?

Door Handle Replacement

It's worth it to replace door handles if you don't like the way they look, or if they are difficult to use. Installing the new handle on your door is simple if you have patience.

Modern door handles are typically equipped with cover plates which hide the screws to give them an attractive look. However, you'll have to attach them separately if your new handle doesn't already have them.

Take off the handle from the old one.

Door handles aren't just an important for their aesthetic value to your home, but they're essential for security as they allow you to lock and unlock your door. But, over time, your door handle may lose its grip, appear loose, or look old and worn. This is a clear indication that it's time to replace the door handle.

One of the first signs that your door handle requires replacing is the fact that it is becoming difficult to operate.  Repair My Windows And Doors  is a problem because it means that you can not lock or unlock your door which could be a security risk for you and your family.

It's also an excellent idea to replace your door handle when it's damaged or broken. A broken door handle is dangerous, particularly for children and elderly family members who struggle to open it. They may get trapped. It's simple to fix a damaged handle on the door.

The majority of modern door handles are standard size and so they will fit on any door. If you're not sure if your new door handle will work, try removing the old one and measuring its housing holes. This will help you to buy the correct sized door handle.

The most straightforward method to take off the door handle you have been using is to unscrew it from the door. This is usually done using the screw driver. Some door handles come with an enclosure plate that hides the screws used to mount them. You will need to remove it to get to the screws. After removing the handle that was previously used, take note of the way in which the spindle is connected. This will help you align the new handle.

You can also remove the door handle by unscrewing the latch mechanism. This is usually done with an screwdriver however you'll need to locate the small latch, which should be on the edge of the trim piece. After you have removed the latch, take off the handle and strike plate. Then remove the latch from the edge of the door.

Removal of the Strike Plate

You'll need to replace the latch plate when replacing the handle. It's the part that is the one that holds the hole in which the latch of the door hooks when the door closes. The box that the new handles come in will include two latch plates - either a rectangular or circular (see the above diagram that outlines the parts of the door handle). If your current latch plate has rectangular, swap it over to the circular one so that the latch hooks onto the strike plate in a manner that makes the handle more comfortable to operate.


The first step is to unscrew the screw that holds the old latch plate in place. The screws can be very tight, and may require some force to loosen. It might be beneficial to have a second person assist in this area if it is possible.

The latch plate should easily be removed from the door after the screws have been removed. If it's stuck or won't move then use a small nail file to scratch around the edges of the latch plate. This can help loosen the plate.

Now you can prepare the new strike plate for installation. Utilizing the wood screws that came with your new handles, attach the latch plate to the inside of the doorjamb. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this could cause damage to the strike plate.

If you're not sure if the latch plate is in the right position Try closing and then opening the door to see whether it latches and closes correctly. If it does not, you will need to adjust the strikeplate upwards or down, forward or back until the door locks correctly.

If the door still moves or jiggles, you may need to increase the size of your latch hole on the strike plate. This is more frequent on older doors. It could be caused by wear and tear hinges that are too shallow, the wrong size latch or a damaged strike plate. If this is the situation then you should use a filing made of metal instead of a chisel, or hammer to adjust the strike plate.

Eliminating the Latch

The latch is a curved metal piece that slides in and out of a hole on the inside of your door. The latch moves forward when you turn the handle. It also catches a hole on the door's frame so that the door remains closed. If your door wiggles when you close it, changing the latch might be all you need to fix it.

The screws that support the door latch are difficult to locate however, you can use a screwdriver to make a small hole in the trim plate and pry the latch off. After you've removed your trim plate, it will be easy to remove the latch as well as the bolts that keep the spindle and latch in the position.

If the latch won't release, try using an old-fashioned paper clip or tool to free it from the handle mechanism. Insert the item into the recessed latch slot and gently turn or jiggle it until you feel the handle and latch start to separate. You may have repeat this process a few times before you can remove the latch.

Once the old latch is removed it should be possible to slide the new latch into the slot without difficulties. Make sure the latch is properly positioned in the slot and is aligned with the screw chambers and then use the new screws to attach it to the strike plate and door frame.

Take note of the backset (the distance between the centre of the large hole on 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 matches the measurement of your existing handle.

If you are replacing the handle or latch, or if your old lock cylinder is damaged, then you'll need a new one. If you are not changing locks, a new lock should fit into your existing recess and will work with the keys you have already. Select a latch with rectangular cover plates to match your old handles.

Removing the Cover Plate

Door handles may begin to look shabby over time However, if you replace them with a modern lever on rose design it's a quick and easy DIY project to decorate and can improve the overall appearance of your home. You can buy complete sets that include privacy adaptors, escutcheons, and escutcheons.

The first step in replacing an internal door handle is to remove the cover plate or rose, which covers the screws and mechanism inside. Use a flathead for removing the cover plate. It could have an opening on one edge or be held by a pin.

Once the cover plate is removed take the screw that holds the interior handle in place and set it aside. Take off the screws that hold both the inner and outer plates. You can loosen them using the help of a Philips Screwdriver. Remove the inner plates and latch from the door. Put them away.

Most doors have an opening between the door jamb and the inside edge of the frame, which allows for a handle, however not all do. If yours isn't allow for a handle, you'll have to make a hole into the door. The process for doing this is the same as opening a door using a lock, but you'll have to be extra careful not to damage the frame or door.

Installing new door knob screws is necessary after the holes have been made. Make sure to buy the same size as the previous ones, so you won't have an handle that is either too tight or too loose. Installing a new latch and strike rod is also necessary. These aren't included in most door handle sets.

Amazon's Choice FAERSI 2-piece chrome finish handle sets are a fantastic choice if you're in the market of a premium interior door handle replacement set. It's factory-fitted and has received hundreds of 5-star reviews. It's an excellent option to replace worn or damaged door hardware on your Chevy.