Door Handle Replacement Door handles seem like an insignificant thing however, if you don't like the appearance of the handles or find them difficult to use then it's time to replace them. Installing a new door handle is simple if you've got patience. Modern door handles are often equipped with cover plates that hide the screws, giving them an attractive appearance. If your new handle doesn't have screws already connected, you'll need to attach them separately. Remove the handle that was previously used Door handles are not only an important aesthetic addition to your home, but they're also essential for security as they let you lock and unlock your door. But, over time the door handle could lose its grip, become loose, or look old and worn out. This is a sign that it's time to replace your door handle. If your door handle is becoming difficult to use, it might be time to replace it. This is a serious issue because you won't be able to lock or unlock the door which could put you and your family at risk. It's also a good idea to replace your door handle in the event that it's damaged or broken. A damaged or broken door handle is risky, particularly for elderly and children members who struggle to open it. They could be trapped. It's easy to fix a damaged handle on doors. Most modern door handles are a standard size and therefore should fit any door. If you aren't sure if the new door handle you are buying will work, take out the old one and measure the holes in its housing. This will allow you to buy the right size door handle. It is the easiest method to remove the old door handle by removing it from the door. This is usually done using a screw driver. However some door handles have the cover plate which hides the mounting screws so you'll need to pry off this to reach the screws underneath. After you've removed the old handle, take note of the way the spindle is connected to ensure that you can align it when you fit your new one. You can also remove the door handle by removing the latch mechanism. This is usually done using the screwdriver, but you'll need to locate the small latch, which should be just to the left of the trim piece. Once you've removed the latch, you'll need to unscrew the handle from the strike plate and then remove the latch off the door's edge. Removal of the Strike Plate You'll need to replace the latch plate after 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 new handles will come with two latch plates that are circular and rectangular plate (see the image above which shows the various parts of the door handle). If your current latch plate has a rectangular shape, switch it over to the circular one so that the latch is able to hook into the strike plate in a way that makes the handle more comfortable to operate. The first step is to unhook the screw that holds the latch plate. These screws can be quite tight and will require some force to loosen. If you are able, it could be beneficial to have a second person help with this process. After the screws are removed and the latch plate should slide out of the door with ease. If the latch plate is stuck or refuses to move, use a small file to scrape the edges. This can help loosen the plate. Now you can move on to creating the new door strike plate to be installed. Screw the latch plate into the doorjamb using the wood screws that were included with your new handles. Be careful not to tighten too much the screws, as this can damage the strike plate. If you're not sure whether the latch plate is in its correct position, shut and open the door to see whether it latches and closes correctly. If it doesn't then you'll need to adjust the strikeplate either up or down, forward or back until the door locks correctly. If the door is moving or jiggling, then you may need to increase the size of the hole for latching in the strike plate. This is more common on older doors. It can be caused by wear and tear, hinges that are too narrow, the wrong size latch, or damaged strike plate. If this is the situation, follow the same procedure to adjust the strike plate, but using a metal file instead of an hammer and chisel. Take off the Latch The latch is an angled metal piece which slides in and out of a hole in the inside of your door. The latch is moved forward when you turn the handle. It also connects to a hole in the door frame to keep the door closed. If your door is wiggles when you close it, replacing the latch might be the only thing needed to fix it. It's difficult to identify the screws that attach the latch to the door, however there's usually a tiny slot on the trim plate that permits you to insert a screwdriver in order to take it off. After you've removed your trim plate, it will be simple to take off the latch as well as the remaining bolts that hold the spindle and latch in the position. If the latch isn't easily removed using 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 separate. You may need to repeat this procedure several times before you are able to pull the latch out. You should be able slide the new latch into its slot with no issues once you have removed the old one. Use your new screws to connect the latch to the strike plate or door frame. Make sure https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/horley-windowrepair/ is properly positioned in the slot, aligned with the screw chambers. Take note of the backset (the distance between the center of the large hole in the door's front and the edge) before installing the new handle. Check that the latch size of the new handle matches the measurement. You'll need a new cylinder for your lock if replacing the latch and handle or if your current one is damaged. If you're not replacing the locks, however, a new latch will fit into your existing recess and will work with your current keys. Be sure to select a latch with rectangular cover plates that match the handles you have. Then remove the Cover Plate You can replace your door handles with a contemporary rose and lever designs to make a difference in the appearance of your house. You can buy complete sets that include matching escutcheons and privacy adaptor kits. To replace the door handle inside take off the cover plate (or rose) that covers the screws and inner mechanism. Use a flathead to remove the cover plate. It could have an opening on one side or be secured by pins. Once the cover plate is off take off the screw that holds the inside handle in place and put it aside. It is also necessary to remove the screws that hold the latch and inner plates to the door, which you can accomplish by loosening them using a Philips screwdriver. Then, take the inner plates and latch plate from the door and set them aside. Most doors have gaps between the door jamb and the inside edge of the frame, which allows for a handle, but not all do. If yours isn't allow for a handle, you'll have to drill a new hole in the door. This is the same procedure as opening a locked door, but you will need to be extra careful not to harm the frame or door. After the holes are drilled after which you'll have to put in new screws for the door knob. Make sure you purchase the same size as the previous ones, to ensure that you don't end up with an handle that is either too tight or too loose. You'll also need to install the new strike rod and latch plate that aren't part of the majority of door handle sets. Amazon's Choice FAERSI 2-piece chrome finish handle sets are a great alternative if you're in search of a top-quality interior door handle replacement set. It's factory-fitted and has received hundreds of 5-star reviews. It's an excellent choice to replace damaged or worn door handle hardware inside your Chevy HHR.