French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors Door handles play a vital function, shielding your home from the elements outside. Door handles are also a notable feature that sets a mood for your interior design. Most French doors have two handles, one functional and one decorative. This non-functional handle is commonly known as a dummy handle. Replacement A new handle can be an affordable way to update the appearance of French doors. If your doors are older and need to be replaced or you're planning to remodel, it's important to choose top quality handles that can endure the test of time and withstand the elements. The best handles are made of stainless steel that is antibacterial and is easy to clean. They also have a brushed finish that wards off fingerprints and is less likely to show rust or scratches over time. Handle sets are available in a vast variety of styles and finishes. You'll surely you'll find something that matches your style and decor. Certain styles of handles are more decorative than others, and some have an integrated lock for added security. You can even get key-operated handles, which are great for homes with children. Certain handles are more expensive than others, which is why it's crucial to be aware of your budget when selecting a set. Before you buy a handle, consider what design will best suit your French doors. If you have an interior doors that open in a separate manner it is possible to have two handles. One handle can be locked and the other won't. This will determine if you need a turning handle or a fixed handle. You'll also need to determine whether you'd like your door to to lock from both the inside and outside. You'll need a lock to unlock external doors that require keys. You can pick a simple Yale lock or a multipoint locking system to secure your French doors. Certain systems allow you to lock the top of the door and the bottom simultaneously and some require you to open both the top and bottom. Locate the actuator slot before installing your new handle. This is a cylindrical insert which connects the latch. It's possible to find holes for this in the door frame however, you must be sure to measure and use the spirit level to make sure that the holes are in a straight line. You should also receive an e-boring template along with your handle to assist you to make the correct measurements. Installation While handles for doors may seem like minor accessories but they play a crucial role in your french doors' function as well as security, and even aesthetics. It is essential to choose top-quality handles that are able to withstand regular use and don't need to be replaced or maintained frequently. Depending on the style you prefer and the intended use of your door, you might need to install different handles. The installation process is identical, regardless of the design or function you prefer. First, you need to remove the existing handles and clean up the area where the new ones will be placed. The next step is to drill holes in the door in which you intend to mount the new handle set. Make sure to follow the directions that came with your hardware to ensure that you drill the holes in a manner that allows the lock mechanism to fit correctly. Then, you need to insert the lock bolt through the hole in the edge of the door, and connect it to the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical insert that has a slot which the bolt can pass. Certain handle designs might require the bolt to be inserted before the actuator, so be sure to consult your instructions if you're not sure regarding the order in which you should assemble. Then screw the plate into place to cover the latching mechanisms as well as the locking mechanisms on the active side. You should then check the latch and lock to ensure that they work properly. Repeat the procedure on the door side that you have made up to install the handle that is not functional. During the process, you need to take your time and be cautious. If you rush through the process you might end up with a set of handles that don't function correctly or look good. You should always hire an expert to get the best outcomes. You'll be able to enjoy your beautiful french doors for years to come. Compatibility The type of handle you pick for your french doors will be contingent on how you intend to use them. If you're planning to use them for closets, for example you might not need them to lock and decorative handles will suffice. If you're planning 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 pick for your french doors should be able to handle the type of locks already installed. Consult a professional to make sure the lock is simple to use. A knowledgeable expert such as the ones at CD Windows will be able to help you choose the correct handle for your doors. When it comes to French Door Handles, there are a myriad of options. Some come with built-in locks which eliminate the necessity of a separate lock system. Certain latches and locks can be operated by the handle for additional security. In any case, you'll want to make sure that the handles you pick are compatible with the hardware you already have and will fit well with the door's style and style. Another aspect to consider is whether you'd like the handle sets to lock both sides or just one side. This is because French doors are made of two doors that are linked to each other, so they require a totally different mechanism to secure them than single-doors do. If you're looking for an option that locks both sides, then you will need a handle set with locks designed for double doors. In the majority of cases, 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 are non-functional and are purely decorative. These handles are typically employed in areas that don't need to be opened often such as bathrooms and bedrooms. Maintenance Door handles are one of the most frequently used components of your doors, which is why it's important to look after them. Over time, they can become tarnished or discoloured. They might even lose their shine. Utilizing the right cleaning solution can bring them back to their original splendor. In general mild soap is the best and most secure cleaner. However, you must always dry your clothes and rinse off any moisture afterwards to prevent corrosion. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/bournemouth-french-door-repairs-near-me/ are especially prone to tarnishing however you can lessen the risk by maintaining them clean. Begin by rinsing the brass surface with warm water and then a soft cloth to eliminate dirt and dust. Then, mix a solution of baking soda and lemon to scrub away any tarnish. After you have removed the tarnish, you can finish off by polishing the handle with a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Using the right product for your particular material will give you a smooth, shiny finish that lasts for years. A squeaky or rigid door handle can be very difficult to deal with, but it's an issue that is often easily fixed. Examine whether there are any small objects or debris stuck inside the locking mechanism. This could be the reason for your problem. If it's not the case, it could be that you just need to lubricate the inner workings of the door handle to fix the issue. WD-40 is multi-purpose product with a formula that is specially designed to work quickly to help you lubricate your hardware. Applying liberal amounts of the liquid will let your door handle move effortlessly, and will stop it from squeaking. You can also use a Flexible Straw to reach all the tiny nooks and crannies on your French door handle to ensure you don't miss any area. Although replacing a French door handle is a relatively easy process but you should be cautious when drilling holes for the new handles. This is because different styles for doors will have a range of holes in the frame and door, so it's important to match up the holes when putting on the new handles. Check that the cylinder pin, which is the metal piece that connects your entire lock mechanism, is fitted properly.