French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors Door handles serve a crucial function, shielding your home from outside elements. Door handles are also a popular feature that can set the mood for your interior design. The majority of French doors come with two handles: one functional and one decorative. This handle that's not functional is commonly called a dummy. Replacement If you're looking to enhance the appearance of your French doors, a new handle is an affordable way to do so. If you're renovating or replacing doors that are older it is essential to choose a high-quality handle that can withstand frequent use and the elements. The most durable handles are made of stainless steel because it is antibacterial and easy to clean. The handles feature a brushed surface that is impervious to fingerprints and less likely to show scratches or rust as time passes. Handle sets are available in various designs and finishes, so you're sure to find something that complements your style and decor. Some handle styles are more attractive, while others come with an integrated lock to provide extra security. Key-operated handles are available which are ideal for homes with young children. Some handles are more expensive than others, so it's important to take your budget into consideration when selecting a set. Before you purchase a handle, consider what type of handle will work best for your French doors. If you have an inside door that open independently, you may want to have two handles. One handle can be locked and the other won't. This will determine if you need a rotating handle or fixed one. It is also important to decide whether you'd like your door to to lock from both sides. You'll need a lock to unlock external doors that require keys. You can choose a basic Yale lock or a multipoint locking system to secure your French doors. Certain locks allow you to lock the top of the door and the bottom while others require you to unlock the top and bottom. Find the actuator slot prior to installing your new handle. It's a cylindrical insert that connects to the latch. You can usually find an opening in the door frame for this, however it's essential to measure carefully and use a spirit level to ensure that the holes are straight and uniform. You should also get an appropriate hole-boring template when you purchase your handle to help to make the correct measurements. Installation While door handles might seem like a minor accessory, they play a critical role in your french doors' function, security and even aesthetics. That's why it's important to choose high quality handles that can stand up to regular use and don't require frequent replacement or maintenance. Based on the design you want and the purpose of your door, you might need to install different handles. The installation process is nearly identical, irrespective of the design or function you prefer. First, you need to take the old handles off and clean the area where the new ones will be placed. Make holes in the door where you intend to mount the handle set. Follow the directions that came with your hardware so that you can drill the holes properly to allow the lock mechanism to fit. Then, place the lock bolt into the hole that is on the edge of the doors and connect it with the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical insert that has a slot which the bolt can pass. Certain designs of handles may call for you to insert the bolt prior to the actuator, so be certain to read the instructions if you're unsure about the order of assembly. 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. Check the latch and lock. If you're satisfied you're satisfied, repeat the procedure 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 mindful. You may end up with handles that aren't functional or look great if you rush the process. It is recommended to hire an expert to ensure best outcomes. In the end, you'll be in a position to enjoy your gorgeous french doors for many years to be! Compatibility The type of handle that you pick for your French doors will depend on what you plan to use them for. If you intend to use them as closets, you may prefer decorative handles instead of locking hardware. If you plan to put them in a dining room, you'll need locking hardware which is easy to use and secure against forced entry. The handle you choose for your French doors should be able to handle the type of locks already installed. Choosing the wrong kind of handle can result in the lock becoming difficult or impossible to operate, which is why it is essential to consult with a professional before you shop. CD Windows has experts who can assist you in selecting the right handle. When it comes to French Door Handles, there are a myriad of options. Some come with built-in locks, eliminating the requirement for a separate lock system. Certain latches and locks can be activated by the handle for extra security. In any case, you'll want to be sure that the handles you select are compatible with the hardware you already have and will be compatible with the door's type and style. You should also consider whether you would like your handles to lock on one side or both sides. This is because French doors are comprised of two doors that are connected to each other, so they require a completely different method of locking unlike single-doors. If you're seeking a solution that locks on both sides, you'll require a set of handle sets with a lock designed to work with double doors. In the majority of cases, you will find that the handles you put on the active French Door have an opening in the plates to accommodate the latch and the bolt to lock. The dummy handle, on the other hand, will be an unfunctioning handle that is purely decorative. These handles are used in places that aren't opened frequently, such as bathrooms and bedrooms. Maintenance It is important to take care of your door handles since they are the most frequently used element of your doors. As https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/french-door-repairs-caterham/ , they may be stained or tarnished. They may even lose their shine. The right cleaning solution can bring them back to their former glory. In general, mild soap is the most effective and safest cleaner. However, you must always dry and wash off any moisture afterwards to avoid corrosion. Brass handles are particularly prone to tarnishing however, you can minimize the risk by keeping them clean. To remove dust and dirt, first rinse the brass surface with warm tap water. Then use a soft cloth. Next, prepare a mixture of baking soda and lemon to scrub away any tarnish. After you have removed the tarnish, finish by polishing the handle using a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Making use of the right cleaner for your material will guarantee an even and smooth finish that will last for many years. A squeaky or rigid door handle can be incredibly frustrating, but it's something that can be fixed. First, make sure that there aren't any small objects or debris entangled in the door's locking mechanism, as this could be the cause of your issue. If this isn't the case, it could be that you simply have to grease the inner workings of your door handle to resolve it. WD-40 is a multi-purpose item with a special formula that allows you to easily lubricate your hardware. Applying a generous amount of the liquid on your door handle will help it move easily and stop squeaking. You can also use a flexible Straw to reach all the tiny nooks and crevices on your French door handle, so you don't miss a spot. Although replacing a handle for a French door is quite straightforward, you'll need take some care when drilling holes for the new handles. This is because different door styles have different holes in the frame and door. This makes it important to make sure that the holes are matched when installing the new handles. It's also worth checking that the cylinder pin fits correctly and is the metal piece that runs through the whole lock mechanism of your door.