French Door Handle Replacement - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles are important for protecting your home against elements from the outside. Door handles are also a notable feature that can set the tone for your interior aesthetic.
Most French doors have two handles: one that is functional and the other one is decorative. This non-functional hand is often known as a dummy.
Replacement
If you're looking to improve the look of your French doors replacing the handle is a great method to do it. If your doors are older and need to be replaced or you're planning to remodel, it's important to choose high-quality handles that can stand up to repeated use and withstand the elements. The best handles are made of stainless steel as it is antibacterial and easy to clean. The handles feature a brushed surface that is impervious to fingerprints and less likely to rust or show scratches over time.
You can find handle sets in a variety of styles and finishes, so you're certain to find something that matches your style and decor. Some handle styles are more decorative than others, while others include a lock to provide extra security. Key-operated handles are available which are perfect for homes with children. Certain handles are more expensive than others, but it's important to look at your budget when selecting a set.
Choose the best configuration for your French door prior to buying the handle. If you have internal doors that open independently of each other, then you may want one handle that locks and one that doesn't. This will determine if require a handle that rotates or a fixed one. You'll have to decide if you wish to be able to lock the door from the inside as well as the outside.
The majority of exterior doors require keys to unlock them, therefore you'll require an entry point that allows you to do this. You can select a standard Yale lock or a multipoint locking system to secure your French doors. Certain systems let you lock the top and bottom of the door simultaneously while some require you unlock both the top and bottom.
If you're ready to put in your new handle, you must first locate the actuator slot. It's a cylindrical slot that connects to the latch. It is possible to locate a hole for this in the door frame, but you should measure carefully and use the spirit level to make sure that the holes are straight. You should also receive a hole-boring template with your handle to assist you determine the right measurements.
Installation
While handles for doors may seem as if they're just a few accessories however they play an important part in the functionality of your french doors and security, as well as aesthetics. It's important to select top-quality handles that are able to withstand regular use and don't require replacement or maintained often.
Depending on the configurations you want and the purpose of your door, you might need to install different handles. The installation process is identical, regardless of the style or function you choose. You'll need to remove your existing handles and clean the area in which you plan to install the new ones. The next step is to drill holes in the door where you intend to place the new set of handles. Follow the directions included with your hardware to ensure that you drill the holes in a manner that allows the lock mechanism to be fitted properly.
After that, 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 certain about the order of assembly check your instruction.
Once you've done that, screw the plate in place to cover the latching and locking mechanisms on the side that is active on the door. Test the lock and latch. Repeat the procedure on the door side that you have made up to install the nonfunctional handle.
During the process, it's important to take your time and be cautious. If you hurry through the process, you could end up with a set of handles that don't work properly or look attractive. You should always hire a professional to ensure the best results. You'll be able to enjoy your beautiful french doors for years to come.
Compatibility
The kind of handle you choose for your French doors will be contingent on what you plan to use them for. If you are using them as closets, you might want to use decorative handles instead of locking hardware. If you're planning to use them in a dining room, you'll need locking hardware that is simple to use and secure against forced entry. The handle you choose for your french doors must be able to handle the type of locks already in place. Consult a professional to ensure that the lock is easy to operate. CD Windows has experts who can assist you in choosing the correct handle.
When it is French Door Handles, there are a variety of options available. Some French door handles have built-in locking systems that eliminate the requirement for an additional locking system. Some have deadbolts and latches that are activated by the handle for added security. You'll want to make sure that the handles you select will be compatible with your existing hardware, and also will work with the style and type of the door.
It is also important to consider whether you would like your handles to lock on one side or both sides. french door repairs near me is because French doors are composed of two doors that are connected to each other, so they require a different method to secure them as single-doors do. If you want a solution that locks both sides, then you'll require a handle that has a lock designed for double doors.
In most instances, you'll find that the handles you attach onto the active French Door have an opening in the plates to accept the latch and bolt to lock. The dummy handles are non-functional and purely decorative. These handles are usually employed in areas that don't need to be opened often such as bathrooms and bedrooms.

Maintenance
It is essential to take care of the handles on your doors because they are the most frequently used component of your doors. As time passes, they may be stained or tarnished. They may also lose their shine. Utilizing the right cleaning solution can bring them back to their original glory. In general, the safest and gentlest cleaner is an mild soap solution however, you must rinse and dry off all water immediately afterward to prevent damage and corrosion.
Brass handles are particularly prone to tarnishing however, you can minimize the risk by maintaining them clean. Begin by rinsing the brass surface with warm water and a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt. Then, mix a solution of lemon and baking soda to scrub away any tarnish. Once you've removed the tarnish, you can finish off by polishing the handle using a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Making sure you use the right cleaner for your material will ensure a smooth glossy finish that will last for years.
It can be frustrating to experience a squeaky or stiff door handle, however, it's typically fixable. Check to see whether there are any tiny objects or debris stuck inside the locking mechanism. This could be the cause of your problem. If this isn't the case, it could be that you have to grease the inner workings of the door handle to resolve it.
WD-40 is a multi-purpose item with a specific formula that helps you get your hardware lubricated quickly. Applying a generous amount the liquid to your door handle will assist it move easily and stop squeaking. You can also use a Flexible Straw to reach all of the little nooks and crannies on your French door handle to ensure you don't miss any spot.
Although replacing handles for French doors is a relatively easy process but you should be careful when drilling holes to install new handles. This is due to the fact that different designs for doors will have a range of holes in the door and frame which is why it's crucial to make sure that the holes match when installing the new handles. It's also worth checking that the cylinder pin is fitted correctly as it is the piece of metal that runs through the whole lock mechanism on your door.