French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles play a vital role, protecting your home from elements outside. Door handles are also a notable feature that can set the style for your interior.
The majority of French doors are equipped with two handles, one that is functional and one that's purely decorative. This non-functional handle is commonly called a dummy.

Replacement
A new handle is an affordable method to change the appearance of French doors. If you're remodeling or replacing your doors it is essential to choose a high-quality handle that can withstand frequent use and the elements. The most durable handles are made from stainless steel which is antibacterial and is easy to clean. The handles feature a brushed surface which is resistant to fingerprints, and less likely to become rusty or show scratches as time passes.
Handle sets are available in a broad selection of styles and colors. You're sure you'll find something that matches your style and decor. Certain types of handles are more attractive than others, while others have an integrated lock for additional security. There are even key-operated handles, which are ideal for homes with children. Some handles are more expensive than others, however it is important to think about your budget when selecting the right set.
Determine the best configuration for your French door before you buy the handle. If you have internal doors that open independently of one another, then you may want one handle that locks and one that doesn't. This will determine whether you need a turning handle or a fixed handle. You'll have to decide if you would like to to lock the door from the inside and the outside.
You'll need to use an external lock to open doors that require a key. related web-site can get a basic Yale-style lock or a more advanced multipoint locking system that can ensure that your French doors safe. Certain systems let you lock the top and bottom of the door simultaneously, while others require that you unlock both the top and the bottom.
When you're ready to install your new handle, you must first locate the actuator slot. This is a cylindrical insert which connects the latch. It is common to find a hole in the door frame to do this, but it's crucial to measure with care and use a spirit level to ensure that the holes are level and straight. With your handle, you'll need to be provided with a hole-boring tool that will aid you in taking the proper measurements.
Installation
Door handles can appear to be minor accessories but they are essential to the functionality security, safety, and even aesthetics of your french doors. It's important to select top-quality handles that are able to be used regularly and won't require replacement or maintained regularly.
Depending on the configurations you'd like and the purpose of your door, you might need to install different handles. The installation process is nearly identical, irrespective of the style or function you prefer. First, you need to remove the existing handles and clean the area where the new ones will be put. Next, drill holes into the door where you intend to mount the new set of handles. Follow the directions that came with the hardware to ensure that you bore the holes in a manner that will allow the lock mechanism to fit properly.
After that, you should insert the lock bolt through the hole in the side of the door, and connect it to the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical component that has a slot which the bolt goes. If you're not sure about the assembly's order you should consult the instructions.
Once you've done that screw the plate into place to cover the latching and locking mechanisms on the side that is active on the door. You must then test the latch and lock to ensure that they work properly. Repeat the process on the door with a dummy to install the handle that isn't functional.
It's important to be patient and attentive during the process. You may end having handles that are not functional or look good if you rush the process. You should always seek out a professional to ensure the best outcomes. Then, you'll be able to enjoy your gorgeous french doors for 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 for closets, for example it is unlikely that you'll need them to lock and decorative handles will suffice. If you plan to put them in a bedroom or dining room, you'll require locks that are simple to use and secure against forced entry. The handle you select for your French door must also be compatible with locks already in place. Consult a professional to make sure the lock is easy to use. A knowledgeable expert like the ones at CD Windows will be able to assist you in finding the correct handle for your doors.
When it is about French Door Handles, there are a myriad of options. Certain French door handles come with integrated locking systems, removing the need for a separate locking system. Certain latches and locks can be activated by the handle for additional security. In any event, you'll want to be sure that the handles you pick are compatible with the hardware you already have and will fit well with the door type and style.
It is also important to consider whether you would like your handles to lock on one side or both sides. This is due to the fact that French doors are comprised of two doors that are connected to one another, which means they require a totally different mechanism to secure them than single-doors do. If you are looking for an option that locks both sides, then you'll require a handle that has a lock that is designed for double doors.
In most instances, the handles you put on the active French Door will have openings in the plates to accept the latch and lock bolt. The dummy handles aren't functional and are purely decorative. These handles are typically used in places that aren't opened frequently, such as bedrooms and bathrooms.
Maintenance
It is essential to take care of your door handles since they are the most commonly used part of your doors. Over time, they could get stained or tarnished. They may also lose their shine. The right cleaning solution will restore them to their former splendor. In general, the safest and gentlest cleaning solution is an mild soap solution, although you should always clean and dry off all moisture afterward to avoid damage and corrosion.
Brass handles are especially prone to tarnishing. You can minimize the chance of this happening by keeping them clean. To get rid of dust and dirt, first rinse the brass surface with warm tap water. Then, use a soft cloth. Next, prepare a mixture of lemon and baking soda to scrub away any tarnish. After you have removed the tarnish, you can polish the handle using a stainless-steel-specific cleaner. Using the right product for your material ensures a smooth and shiny finish that lasts for many years.
A stiff or squeaky door handle can be very annoying, but it's a problem which is usually fixable. The first step is to ensure that there aren't any small objects or debris caught inside the door's locking mechanism which could be the reason for your issue. If this isn't the case, it could be that you just need to grease the internal workings of your door handle to fix the issue.
WD-40 is a multipurpose product with a unique formula that helps you get your hardware lubricated quickly. Applying generous amounts of the liquid will allow your door handle to move smoothly, and stop it from making noises. You can also use a Flexible Straw to reach all the tiny nooks and crannies on your French door handle, ensuring that you don't miss any place.
While replacing handles for French doors is relatively simple, you will need to be cautious when drilling holes to install new handles. This is because different styles for doors have a variety of holes in the door and frame which is why it's crucial to ensure that the holes are matched when fitting the new handles. It's also worth checking that the cylinder pin fits properly, which is the piece of metal that runs through the whole lock mechanism on your door.