French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors

Door handles are crucial for protecting your home against external elements. They're also a popular design element that sets the tone for your interior style.

Most French doors are configured with two handles, one that's functional and one that's purely decorative. This handle that's not functional is commonly known as a dummy handle.

replacement french doors

If you're looking to improve the look of your French doors and handle, a new one is a great way to do so. If you are remodeling or replacing your doors it is essential to select high-quality handles that can withstand repeated use and the elements. The most durable handles are made of stainless steel since it is antibacterial and easy to clean. They also have an brushed finish that is resistant to fingerprints and is less likely to show rust or scratches over time.

Handle sets are available in a vast range of styles and finishes. You'll be able to find something that will complement your style and decor. Some handle styles have a more decorative look while others have an integrated lock for extra security. You can even get key-operated handles, which are great for homes with small children. Some handles are more expensive than others, but it's important to look at your budget when selecting the right set.

Choose the best configuration for your french door frame replacement door prior to buying the handle. If you have interior doors that open in a separate manner it is possible to install two handles. One handle can be locked while the other one won't. This will determine if you require a handle that rotates or a fixed one. You'll have to decide if you would like to be able secure the door from both the inside or the outside.

The majority of exterior doors require keys to unlock them, so you'll need locks that allow you to accomplish this. You can get a basic Yale-style lock, or an sophisticated multipoint locking system to ensure that your French doors secure. Certain locks allow you to lock the top of the door and the bottom at the same time while others require you to unlock both the top and bottom.

When you're ready to install your new handle, first locate the slot for actuator. It's a circular insert that connects to the latch. It is common to find a hole in the door frame for this, but it's important to take your measurements carefully and use a spirit level to ensure that the holes are straight and consistent. It is also recommended to get an e-boring template along with your handle to help you to make the correct measurements.

Installation

While handles for doors may seem like minor accessories but they play a crucial part in your french doors' functionality as well as security, and even aesthetics. It's important to select high-quality handles that will endure regular use and don't need to be replaced or maintained often.

Depending on your desired configurations and the purpose of your doors, you could require different kinds of handles. But regardless of your preferred style and function the process of installation is almost identical. First, you must take the old handles off and clean up the area where the new ones will be installed. The next step is to drill holes in the door where you plan to mount the new handle set. Make sure to follow the directions included with the hardware to ensure that you drill the holes in a way that will allow the lock mechanism to fit correctly.

Then, you can insert the lock bolt into the hole that is on the edge of the doors and connect it to the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical part with an opening that the bolt can pass through. Certain designs of handles may call for you to insert the bolt prior to the actuator, so be sure to follow the instructions if you're unclear about the correct order to put it together.

Once you've done that fix the plate to cover the latching and locking mechanisms on the active side of the door. Test the latch and lock. If you're satisfied then repeat the process on the mock side of the door to install the handle that's not functional.

It is essential to be patient and cautious throughout the process. You may end having handles that aren't functional or do not look great if you rush the process. This is why you should seek out a skilled professional who can give you the most effective outcomes. You'll then be able to enjoy your gorgeous french doors for many years to come.

Compatibility

The kind of handle you select for your French doors will depend on the purpose for which you plan to use them for. If you're using them for closets, as an example it is unlikely that you'll need them to be locked, so decorative handles are sufficient. If you're using them for bedrooms or dining rooms, however, you will need locking hardware that allows to be used with ease while providing security against forced entry. The handle you choose for your french doors must be able to handle the locks that are already installed. Choosing the wrong kind of handle can cause the lock to be difficult or impossible to operate, so it's important that you consult with a professional before you shop. CD Windows has experts who can assist you in choosing the right handle.

When it is about French Door Handles, there are a myriad of options. Some have built-in locks which eliminate the requirement for an additional lock system. Some latches and locks are activated by the handle to provide additional security. You'll need to ensure that the handles you select will be compatible with the hardware you already have, and will also be compatible with the type and design of the door.

You should also think about whether you want your handle sets to be locked on one side or both sides. French doors are two doors joined together which means they require an entirely different mechanism than single doors. If you're looking for a solution that locks both sides, you'll require a set of handle sets with a lock designed to work with double doors.

In most instances, the handles that you install on the active French Door will have openings in the plates to accept the latch and lock bolt. The dummy handle, on the other hand, will be an unfunctioning handle that is purely decorative. These handles are used in areas that aren't used frequently, such as bedrooms and bathrooms.

Maintenance

It is crucial to take care of your door handles because they are the most commonly used element of your doors. As time passes, they may be stained, tarnished or even lose their shine entirely. Using the correct cleaning solution can restore them to their original glory. In general, the safest and gentlest cleaner is mild soap solutions however, you must rinse and dry off all water afterward to avoid damage and corrosion.

Brass handles are particularly susceptible to tarnishing however you can lessen the risk by keeping them clean. Begin by washing the brass surface with warm water and then a soft cloth to get rid of dirt and dust. Then, mix a solution of lemon and baking soda to scrub away any tarnish. Once you've removed the tarnish, finish off by polishing the handle using a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Using the right product for your particular material will ensure a smooth and shiny finish that will last for many years.

It can be a hassle to experience a squeaky or stiff door handle however, this issue is generally fixable. First, you should check whether there aren't any small objects or debris caught inside the locking mechanism of the door, as this could be the reason for your issue. If this isn't the case, it could be that you simply need to lubricate the inner workings of your door handle in order to fix it.

WD-40 is a multi-purpose product with a specific formula that helps you easily lubricate your hardware. Applying generous amounts of the liquid will let your door handle move smoothly, and stop it from sounding squeaky. You can also use a flexible Straw to reach all the tiny nooks and crannies on your French door handle, so you don't miss a spot.

While the process of replacing french door glass a handle for a French door is fairly 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 is why it's important to ensure that the holes match when installing the new handles. Make sure that the cylinder pin, the metal piece that runs through your entire lock mechanism, fits perfectly.