Door Handle Replacement
Door handles may seem like an insignificant thing but if you aren't happy with the way they look or are finding them difficult to use, it's worth replacing them. With some patience, you can install an entirely new handle in a short time.
Most modern door handles have cover plates that conceal the screws for an attractive appearance. If the new handle doesn't have them already connected, you'll have to attach them separately.
Take off the handle from the old one.
The door handle is not only a decorative addition to your home It's also an element of security that allows you to lock and unlock your door. However, over time, your door handle may lose its grip, appear loose, or look old and worn. This is an indication that it's time for a replacement.
One of the first signs that your door handle is in need of replacing is when it becomes difficult to operate. This is a serious issue as you will no longer be in a position to lock or unlock the door, which could put you and your family at risk.
Another reason to replace the door handle is if it's damaged or broken. A damaged or broken door handle can be dangerous, especially for elderly and children members who struggle to open it. They may get trapped. Luckily, it's quite simple to fix a damaged door handle by replacing the old one.
Modern door handles are typically standard sizes and will fit any door. If you are 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.
It is the easiest way to remove the old door handle by taking it off from the door. This is usually done using a screw driver. However, some door handles have a cover plate that conceals the mounting screws, so you'll need to pry off this to reach the screws beneath. After removing the old handle, make a note of the way in which the spindle is attached. This will help you align the new handle.
You can also remove the door handle by removing it from the latch mechanism. You can use a screwdriver for removing the door handle. However, you'll have to locate the tiny latch, which is located on the edge cut piece. Once you've removed the latch, you can unscrew the handle from the strike plate and then the latch off the door's edge.
The Strike Plate
When replacing your handle, you'll need to replace the latch plate that holds the hole that the door's latch hooks into when it closes. The box that the new handles are packaged with will offer two latch plates: a rectangular one and a circular one (see the diagram above for the components of a door handle). If you have a rectangular latch plate, you can replace it with a circular one. This will let the latch hook onto the strike plate and make the handle more convenient.
The first step is to unscrew the screw that is holding the latch plate that was previously in place. These screws are often tight, and may require some force to loosen. It is helpful to get a second person to assist in this area if it is possible.
The latch plate should be removed from the door after the screws have been removed. If the latch plate is stuck or won't move, use a small file to scrape the edges. upvc door handles can sometimes free up the plate.
Now you can move on to preparing the new door strike plate for installation. Install the latch plate in the door jamb using the screws that were included with your new handles. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this can 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 does not then you'll need to adjust the strikeplate either up or down, forward or back until the door closes properly.
If the door continues to move or jiggles, you might have to enlarge your latch hole on the strike plate. This is more common with older doors, but could also be caused by wear and tear hinge mortises that are too shallow or are not sized correctly for the latch, or due to a broken or damaged strike plate. If this is the case, use a metal filing instead of a chisel, or hammer to adjust the strike plate.
Removal of the Latch
The latch is the angled piece of metal that moves in and out of the hole on the inside edge of your door. The latch moves forward when you turn the handle. It also connects to a hole in the door frame to keep the door closed. If your door shakes when you close it, replacing the latch could be all you need to correct the issue.
It's difficult to see the screws that secure the latch to the door, however there's usually a tiny slot on the trim plate that allows you to insert a screwdriver and pry it off. After removal of the trim plate you should be able to remove the latch and the bolts that hold it and the spindle.
If the latch cannot be easily removed, use a paperclip or tool to take it off the handle mechanism. Place the item in the latch's slot that is recessed and gently move it around until you feel the latch and handle begin to separate. You may need to repeat this several times before the latch is loose enough to pull out.
Once the old latch is removed it should be possible to insert the new latch into the slot without difficulties. Make sure the latch is positioned correctly in the slot and lined up with the screw chambers, and then use the new screws to attach it to the strike plate and door frame.
Measure the existing backset (the distance between the center of the large hole on the door's front and the edge) prior to installing the new handle. Verify that the size of the latch of the new handle is equal to the measurement.
You'll need a new cylinder for your lock if you're replacing the handle and latch, or your old one is damaged. If you're not changing the locks however, a new latch will fit into your existing recess, and be compatible with the keys you have currently. Select a latch with rectangular cover plates that match the handles you have.
Remove the cover plate
Door handles may begin to look shabby with time However, if you replace them with a modern lever on rose design it's a quick and easy DIY and decorating project that will enhance the overall appearance of your home. You can purchase complete sets with matching escutcheons, privacy adaptors and escutcheons.
The first step to replace the door handle inside is to remove the cover plate or rose, which conceals the screws and the mechanism within. Use a flathead for removing the cover plate. It may have an opening along one side or be secured by pins.
Remove the screw that is holding the handle inside and put it aside after the cover plate is removed. Take off the screws that hold both the outer and inner plates. You can loosen them with a Philips Screwdriver. Then, remove the inner plates and latch plate from the door and put them aside.
Most doors have a gap between the door jamb and the edge of the frame, which allows for a handle, but not all have. If yours does not have a handle, you'll need to drill a hole in the door to accommodate the new handle. The procedure for this is the same procedure for opening a door with a lock, but you'll need to take extra care not to damage the door or frame.
After drilling the holes, you'll need to install new door knob screws. Purchase the same size as the old screws to avoid getting the handle too tight or loose. Installing a new strike rod and latch is also required. These aren't included in the majority of door handle sets.
If you're looking for a quality replacement interior door handle set look no further than the Amazon's Choice FAERSI two-piece chrome-finished handle set. It's a factory-fit product and has been praised with hundreds of five-star reviews. It's a great option for replacing worn out or damaged door hardware on your Chevy.