french door repairs waltham-forest RepairMyWindowsAndDoors - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles play an essential function, shielding your home from outside elements. Door handles are also a notable feature that can set a mood for your interior design.
The majority of French doors are equipped with two handles, one that is functional and the other is purely decorative. This handle that's not functional is commonly known as a dummy handle.
Replacement
If you're looking to enhance the appearance of your French doors and handle, a new one is a great option to achieve this. If you're remodeling or replacing doors that are older it is essential to choose a high-quality handle that can withstand frequent use and the elements. The best handles are constructed from stainless steel, which has antibacterial properties and is easy to clean. The handles are brushed that is resistant to fingerprints and less likely to rust or show scratches over time.
Handle sets are available in various styles and finishes, so you're sure to find something that complements your style and decor. Certain styles of handles are more appealing than others, while some have an integrated lock for added security. There are even key-operated handles, which are great for homes with children. Some handles are more costly than others, which is why it is important to take your budget into consideration when choosing the right set.
Determine the best configuration for your French door prior to purchasing a handle. If you have interior doors that open in a different way from one another, then you may want one handle that locks, and one that doesn't. This will determine if you require a turning handle or a fixed. It is also important to decide whether you'd like your door to to be locked from both sides.
You'll need locks to open external doors which require a key. You can select a standard Yale lock or a multipoint locking system to secure your French doors. Certain locks allow you to lock the top of the door and the bottom, while other systems require you to open both the top and bottom.
When you're ready for installing your new handle, first find the slot for actuator. It's a cylindrical insert that connects to the latch. It is common to find holes in the door frame for this, however it's essential to take your measurements carefully and make use of a spirit-level to ensure the holes are level and straight. With your handle, you should have a hole-boring device to aid you in taking the proper measurements.
Installation
Although door handles may appear like a minor accessory but they play a crucial part in your french doors' functionality, security and even aesthetics. It is important to select high-quality handles that can withstand regular use and don't require replacement or maintained regularly.
Based on the design you want and the purpose of your door, you might require different handles. However regardless of the design and function, the installation process is similar. First, you need to remove the existing handles and clean the area where the new ones will be placed. The next step is to drill holes in the door where you intend to mount the new set of handles. Make sure to follow the instructions that came with your hardware to ensure that you drill the holes in a way that allows the lock mechanism to fit properly.
Then, insert the lock bolt into the hole that is on the edges of the doors and connect it with the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical piece with an opening that allows the bolt to pass through. Some handle designs may call for the bolt to be inserted before the actuator, so make sure to follow the instructions if you're not sure about the correct order to put it together.
Then screw the plate into place to cover the latching mechanisms as well as the locking mechanisms of the active side. You must then check the latch and lock to make sure that they function properly. Once you're satisfied you're satisfied, repeat the procedure on the mock side of the door to put in the non-functional handle.
It is essential to be patient and attentive during the process. You might end up with handles that are not functional or do not look good if you rush the process. It is recommended to hire an expert to get the best results. You'll be enjoying your beautiful french doors for years to come!
Compatibility
The type of handle that you select for your French doors will depend on what you plan to use them for. If you're using them for closets, for instance, you may not want locks, and instead, decorative handles will suffice. If you're using them for a dining room or bedroom however, you'll require locking hardware that permits for ease of use while providing security against forced entry. The handle you select for your French door must also be compatible with the locks already installed. If you choose the wrong handle could make the lock difficult or impossible to operate, which is why it is essential to consult with a professional before making your shop. CD Windows has experts who can assist you in choosing the right handle.
There are many alternatives when it comes down to French Door Handles. Some are equipped with locks that are built-in which eliminate the necessity of a separate lock system. Certain latches and locks can be activated by the handle to provide additional security. You'll want to make sure that the handles you pick will be compatible with the hardware you already have, and also will work with the type and design of the door.
You should also think about whether you want your handle sets to be locked on one or both sides. This is due to the fact that French doors are composed of two doors that are linked to each other, so they require a totally different method to secure them unlike single-doors. If you're looking for a solution that locks both sides, you'll require an entire set of handle sets with a lock designed to work with double doors.
In most cases, you will find that the handles you attach on the active French Door have an opening in the plates to accept the latch and the bolt to lock. The handles that are dummy are not functional and are purely decorative. These handles are typically used in areas that aren't used often, like bathrooms and bedrooms.
Maintenance
Door handles are one of the most frequently used components of your doors, which is why it's essential to maintain them. As time passes, they may become tarnished, discoloured or even lose their shine entirely. The correct cleaning solution will bring them back to their former splendor. In general mild soap is the most effective and most secure cleaner. However, you must always dry and wash off any moisture afterward to prevent corrosion.
Brass handles are particularly prone to tarnishing, but you can reduce the chance of this happening by maintaining them clean. To get rid of dust and dirt, first rinse the brass surface with warm tap water. Then, use a soft cloth. Then, mix a solution of lemon and baking soda to scrub away any tarnish. After removing the tarnish you can polish the handle using a stainless-steel-specific cleaner. Selecting the right product for your material will guarantee an even and smooth finish that lasts for years.
A squeaky or stiff door handle can be very difficult to deal with, but it's an issue that can be fixed. First, make sure that there aren't any small objects or debris caught inside the locking mechanism of the door, as this could be the cause of the issue. If this is not the case, you may have to grease your door handle's inner workings to resolve the issue.
WD-40 is a multipurpose product with a specific formula that helps you lubricate hardware quickly. Applying a generous amount the liquid on your door handle will assist it to move effortlessly and stop 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 a place.
Although replacing handles for French doors is fairly simple, you will need to be careful when drilling holes to install new handles. It's because different door designs have different holes in the frame and door. This makes it important to ensure that the holes match when installing the new handles. Make sure that the cylinder pin, the metal piece that connects your entire lock mechanism, fits correctly.