Door Handle Replacement
Door handles seem like something minor but if you aren't happy with the style or design of them, or are finding them difficult to use and use, you should consider replacing them. Installing the new handle on your door is easy if you have patience.
Modern door handles are often equipped with cover plates that conceal the screws to give them an attractive look. However, you'll need to attach them separately if your new handle doesn't have them attached already.
Remove the Old Handle
Door handles are not only an important aesthetic addition to your home, but they're essential for security as they allow you to lock and unlock your door. However, as time passes the door handle could lose its grip, become loose, or appear old and worn out. This is a sign that it's probably the time to replace your door handle.
One of the first signs that your door handle needs replacing is when it becomes difficult to operate. This is a problem because it means that you can no longer lock or unlock your door, which could pose the risk of security for you and your family.
Another reason to replace the door handle is if it's damaged or broken. A damaged or broken door handle can be risky, particularly for elderly or children members who may struggle to open it. They could become trapped. Luckily, it's quite easy to fix a broken door handle by replacing the old one.
Modern door handles are generally standard sizes and will fit any door. If you're not certain that your new door handle will work, take off the old one and measure the holes in its housing. This will let you purchase the right size door handle.
The easiest method to remove the door handle you have been using is to unscrew it from the door. Usually it is a matter of using a screwdriver. However some door handles have an outer cover plate that hides the mounting screws so you'll need to remove this to reach the screws underneath. Once you have removed the old handle, take an outline of how the spindle is positioned to ensure you are able to make sure it is aligned when you put in your new one.
Alternatively, you can remove the door handle by uncrewing it from the latch mechanism. This is usually done with the screwdriver, but you'll need to find the small latch, which is located just to the left of the trim piece. After removing the latch, unscrew the handle and strike plate. Then, you can remove the latch from the door's edge.
Remove the Strike Plate
You'll need to replace the latch plate when you replace the handle. It's the plate that is the one that holds the hole in which the latch for the door is inserted when the door is closed. The box that the new handles are packaged in will include two options for latch plates: one that is rectangular and the other circular (see the diagram above for door handle parts). If your current latch plate has rectangular in shape, swap it over to the round one, so that the latch hooks onto the strike plate in a way that makes the handle easier to use.
The first step is to unhook the screw that holds the latch plate. These screws are often tight and will require some force to loosen. It may be helpful to have a second person assist in this area if it is possible.
The latch plate should come out of the door once the screws have been removed. If it is stuck or doesn't move then use a small nail file to scrape the edges of the latch plate. This will sometimes free the plate.
Now, you can proceed to preparing the new door strike plate to be installed. Screw the latch plate into the doorjamb using the wood screws that came with the new handles. Do not overtighten repairmywindowsanddoors because this could cause damage to the strike plate.
If you're unsure if the latch plate is in the correct position Try closing and opening the door to check if it closes and latches correctly. If it doesn't you'll need to adjust the strike plate up or down, or move it forward or back, until the door closes and latches correctly.
If the door is still moving or jiggles, you might have to enlarge your latch hole on the strike plate. This is more frequent with older doors, but could be due to wear and tear hinge mortises that are too narrow or the wrong size for the latch, or due to damaged or broken strike plate that is damaged or broken. If this is the case you can use a metal file instead of a chisel or hammer to adjust the strike plate.
Removal of the Latch
The latch is a bent metal piece that slides into and out of a hole on the inside of your door. The latch moves forward when you turn the handle. It also connects to an opening in the door frame to keep the door shut. If your door wiggles when you close it, replacing the latch could be the only thing needed to fix it.
The screws that hold the door latch are hard to spot however, you can use a screwdriver to make an insignificant hole on the trim plate, and then pull the latch off. After taking off the trim plate you will be able to pull off the latch, as well as the bolts that hold it in place and the spindle that holds it.
If the latch won't be released, try using an old-fashioned paper clip or tool to release it from the handle mechanism. Insert the item into the slot for the latch that is recessed. gently turn or jiggle it until you feel the latch and handle begin to split. You may have to repeat this procedure several times before you are able to pull the latch out.
Once the old latch is removed it should be possible to slide the new latch into the slot with no difficulties. Use your new screws to secure the latch to the strike plate or door frame. Make sure that it is correctly placed in the slot, and aligned with the screw chambers.
Measure the existing backset (the distance between the center of the large hole in the door's front and the edge) before installing the new handle. Make sure that the size of the latch of the new handle is in line with the measurement.
You'll need a new cylinder for your lock if replacing the latch and handle or your existing one is damaged. If you're not switching locks the new lock should fit into your existing recess and also work with your existing keys. Make sure you select a latch with rectangular cover plates that match your handles.
Remove the cover plate
Door handles can start to look worn over time, but if you replace them with a modern lever-on-rose designs, it's an easy and quick DIY project and decorating idea that will enhance the overall appearance of your home. You can buy complete sets that come with the appropriate escutcheons and privacy adjustor kits.
To replace an internal door handle take off the cover plate (or rose) that protects the screws and the inner mechanism. Use a flathead for removing the plate. It may have an opening on one side or be held by pins.
Once the cover plate is off, remove the screw that holds the inside handle in place and put it aside. You'll also want to remove the screws that are holding the latch and plates, which you can do by loosening them using a Philips screwdriver. Then, you can remove the outer plates and latch plate from the door and put them aside.
Most doors have gaps between the jamb of the door and the inner edge of the frame, which allows for a handle, however not all do. If yours does not have a handle, you'll need to drill a new hole in the door. The procedure to do this is similar to the procedure opening a door using the lock, however you'll need to take extra care not to harm the frame or door.
After drilling the holes, you'll need to install new screws for the door knob. Make sure to buy the same size as the old ones, so you don't end up with an handle that is either too tight or loose. You'll also need to install a new latch plate and strike rod that aren't part of the majority of door handle sets.
If you're in search of a reliable replacement set of interior door handles look no further than the Amazon's Choice FAERSI two-piece chrome-finished handle set. It's a factory-fit and has received hundreds of 5-star reviews from happy customers. It's an excellent choice for replacing worn or damaged door handle hardware in the interior of your Chevy HHR.