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Door Handle Replacement

It's worth replacing door handles if you aren't happy with the way they look or if they are difficult to use. Installing the new handle on your door is easy if you have patience.

Most modern door handles have cover plates that hide the screws to create a stylish appearance. However, you will need to attach them separately if your new handle doesn't already have them.

Remove the handle that was previously used

Door handles are not only essential for aesthetics of your home, but they're vital for safety since they allow you to lock and unlock your door. However, as time passes your door handle can lose its grip, appear loose, or look old and worn. This is an indication that it's the time to replace your door handle.

One of the first signs that your door handle needs replacing is the fact that it is becoming difficult to operate. This is an issue because it means that you are unable to no longer lock or unlock your door, which could pose the risk of security for you and your family.

It's also recommended to replace the handle on your door in the event that it's damaged or broken. A broken door handle can be very dangerous, especially when your children or elderly family members have difficulty opening it and end up trapped within. It's easy to replace a broken handle on a door.

The majority of modern door handles are standard size, so they should fit any door. If you're not certain that the new door handle you are buying will work, take out the old one and measure its housing holes. This will help you to buy the correct sized door handle.

It is the easiest method to remove the door handle by taking it off from the door. Usually it is a matter of using a screwdriver. Some door handles come with the cover plate, which conceals the screws used to mount them. You'll need to remove it to get to the screws. After removing the handle that was previously used, take note of how the spindle has been connected. This will aid in aligning the new handle.

Alternately, you can take off the door handle by uncrewing it from the latch mechanism. This is usually done with the screwdriver, but you'll need to find the small latch, which should be on the edge of the trim piece. After taking off the latch, remove the handle and the strike plate. Then remove the latch from the edge of the door.

Removing the Strike Plate

When you replace your handle, you'll also need to replace the latch plate that holds the hole which the door's latch hooks into when it closes. The new handles will have two latch plates: a rectangular and circular plate (see the image above that shows the parts of the door handle). If upvc door handle repairs leatherhead have a rectangular latch plate, swap it with a round one. This will allow the latch to be able to hook onto the strike plate and make the handle easier.

The first step is to take off the screw that is holding the latch plate. These screws are often tight, and may require some force to loosen. It is helpful to have a second person assist with this task if you can.

After the screws are removed and the latch plate should slide out of the door with ease. If it is stuck or doesn't move, use a small nail file to scrape the edges of the latch plate. This will sometimes free the plate.

Now you can prepare the new strike plate to be installed. Install the latch plate in the door jamb using the screws that came with the new handles. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this can cause damage to the strike plate.

If you're unsure whether the latch plate is in the correct position, close and open the door to check whether it locks and closes properly. If not, you'll need to adjust the strike plate upwards or down, or even forward or back, until the door closes and latches properly.

If the door still moves or jiggles, you might need to increase the size of your latch hole on the strike plate. This is more prevalent on older doors. It could be caused by wear and tear, hinges that are too narrow, the incorrect size of the latch or a damaged strike plate. If this is the situation you can use a metal file instead of a chisel, or hammer to adjust the strike plate.

Eliminating the Latch

The latch is the angled metal piece that moves through the hole on the inside edge of your door. When you turn the handle, it pushes this latch forward and allows you to open the door. It also catches an opening in the door's frame so that the door stays closed. If your door shakes when you close it, replacing the latch could be the only thing needed to fix it.

It's difficult to see the screws that hold the latch to the door, but there's usually a tiny slot on the trim plate that allows you to insert a screwdriver into the slot and pry it off. After you've removed the trim plate, it'll be simple to take off the latch and the bolts that keep the spindle and latch in the position.

If the latch is not easily removed, use a paperclip or tool to take it off the handle mechanism. Place the item in the slot for the latch that is recessed. gently move it around until you feel the handle and latch begin to split. You may have to do this several times before the latch is loose enough to let it out.

It should be possible to slide the new latch into its slot without any issues after you've removed the old one. Use your new screws to secure the latch to the strike plate or door frame. Make sure it is properly positioned in the slot, and aligned with the screw chambers.

Take note of the backset (the distance between the centre 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 in line with the measurement of your existing handle.

You'll need a new cylinder for your lock if replacing the latch and handle or if your current one is damaged. If you are not changing locks the new lock should fit into your existing recess and will work with your existing keys. Be sure to choose a latch with a rectangular cover plate that match your handles.

Take off the cover plate

Door handles can start to look shabby over time If you replace them with a modern lever on rose design it's an easy and quick DIY project to decorate and will improve the overall look of your home. You can purchase complete sets of door handles that come with the appropriate escutcheons and privacy adjustor kits.

To replace the door handle inside remove the cover plate (or rose) that covers the screws and mechanism. Use a flathead to remove the plate. It could have a slot on one edge or be held by a pin.


Remove the screw holding the handle in the interior and put it aside after the cover plate is removed. It is also necessary to remove the screws that are holding the latch and the plates inside, which you can do by loosening them using the help of a Philips screwdriver. Remove the inner plates and latch from the door. Put them away.

Not all doors have this gap. If yours does not have a handle, you'll need to make a hole in the door for the new handle. The procedure for this is the same procedure for opening a door with the lock, however you'll have to be extra careful not to harm the frame or door.

After the holes are drilled, you'll need to install new door knob screws. Make sure you purchase the same size as the old ones, to ensure that you don't end up with a handle that's too tight or loose. Installing a new latch and strike rod is also required. These are not included in the majority of door handle sets.

Amazon's Choice FAERSI 2-piece chrome finish handle sets are an excellent choice if you're in the market of a premium interior door handle replacement set. It's a factory fit and has received a plethora of 5-star reviews from happy customers. It's a great option for replacing worn or damaged interior door handle hardware on your Chevy HHR.

Member since: Monday, November 25, 2024

Website: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/leatherhead-door-handle-repairs-near-me/