Door Handle Replacement
It's worth it to replace door handles if you aren't happy with the way they look or if they're difficult to use. With some patience, you can install a new handle in no time.
Most modern door handles have cover plates that conceal the screws to create a stylish appearance. However, you'll need to attach them separately if your new handle does not already have them.
Remove the handle that was previously used
Door handles aren't just an essential for aesthetics of your home, but they're also vital for safety since they allow you to lock and unlock your door. However, over time, your door handle may lose its grip, become loose or start to look old and worn. This is an indication that it's time for a replacement.
One of the first indications that your door handle needs replacing is when it becomes difficult to operate. This is a serious issue since you won't be capable of locking or unlocking the door which could put you and your family at risk.
It's also a good idea to replace the handle on your door when it's damaged or broken. A damaged or broken door handle is dangerous, particularly for children and elderly family members who might struggle to open it. They could become trapped. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix a damaged door handle by simply replacing the old one.
Modern door handles are usually standard sizes and should fit any door. If you're unsure if your new door handle will work, try removing the old one and determining the holes in its housing. This will enable you to buy the right size door handle.
It is the easiest way to take off the old door handle by removing it from the door. This is typically done with the screw driver. However, some door handles have an outer cover plate that hides the mounting screws so you'll need to remove this to access the screws beneath. After removing the handle that was previously used, take note of the way the spindle is connected. This will assist you in aligning the new handle.
Alternately, you can take off the door handle by removing it from the latch mechanism. This is typically done with an screwdriver however you'll need to find the small latch, which should be at the edge of the trim piece. After you have removed the latch, you'll need to remove the handle from the strike plate and then remove the latch off the door's edge.
Repair My Windows And Doors
If you are replacing your handle, you'll also want to replace the latch plate, which is the hole that the door's latch hooks into when it closes. The box that the new handles arrive in will have two different latch plates: either a rectangular or circular (see the diagram above detailing the parts of the door handle). If you have an rectangular latch plate, replace it with a round one. This will allow the latch to hook into the strike plate and make the handle more convenient.
The first step is to remove the screw that is holding the latch plate. These screws are often tight, and will require some force to loosen. If you can, it might be beneficial to have a second person help with this process.
Once the screws are removed the latch should slide out of the door with ease. If the latch plate is stuck or doesn't move use a small file to scrape the edges. This can sometimes free up the plate.
Now you can move on to preparing the new door strike plate for installation. Utilizing the wood screws that came with the new handles, attach the latch plate onto the inside of the doorjamb. Don't over tighten your screws because this could cause damage to the strike plate.
If you're not sure whether the latch plate is in the proper position You can try closing and opening the door to see whether it latches and closes correctly. If it doesn't you'll have to adjust the strikeplate upwards or down, forward or back until the door closes correctly.
If the door is moving or jiggling, then you may need to enlarge the hole for latching in the strike plate. This is more prevalent in older doors, however it could also be caused by wear and tear, hinge mortises that are not deep enough or the wrong size for the latch, or because of damage or a 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 the angled metal piece that moves through the hole on the inside edge of your door. The latch is moved forward when you turn the handle. It also hooks into a hole in the frame of the door to keep your door closed. If your door shakes when you close, a new latch may be the only thing needed to fix the issue.
It's difficult to see the screws that attach the latch to the door, but there's usually a tiny slot on the trim plate that permits you to insert a screwdriver and pry it off. After you've removed the trim plate, it should be simple to take off the latch as well as the remaining bolts that hold the spindle and latch in the position.
If the latch won't be released you can try using a paper clip or a tool to spring it loose from the handle mechanism. Place the item in the slot for the latch that is recessed. gently turn or jiggle it until you feel the latch and handle begin to separate. You may need to repeat this several times before the latch becomes loose enough to pull out.
After the old latch is removed, you should be able to slide the new latch into the slot without any difficulties. Make sure that the latch is correctly positioned in the slot and lined up with the screw chambers, and then use your new screws to attach it to the strike plate and door frame.
Before installing the new handle, be certain to measure your existing backset (the distance from the centre of the large hole on the front of the door to the edge). Also, make sure that the size of the latch on the new handle matches the measurement of your existing handle.
You'll need a new cylinder for your lock if you're replacing the handle and latch or if your current one is damaged. If you are not changing locks, a new lock should fit inside your existing recess and will work with your current keys. Select a latch with rectangular cover plates to match your old handles.
Then remove the Cover Plate
You can replace your old door handles with a new design of roses and levers to make a difference in the appearance of your house. You can purchase complete sets that include matching escutcheons and privacy adaptor kits.
To replace the door handle inside, remove the cover plate (or rose) that covers the screws and inner mechanism. Look for an release tab on the plate, and make use of a flathead screwdriver to remove it from the knob. It may have an opening along one side or be held in place by a pin.
After the cover plate is off take off the screw that holds the interior handle in place, and then set it aside. It is also necessary to remove the screws that hold the latch and plates, which you can do by loosening them using a Philips screwdriver. Remove the inner plates and latch from the door. Set them aside.
Some doors don't have this gap. If yours isn't allow for a handle, you'll have to drill a hole into the door. This is the same process as opening a locked door however, you'll need to be extra careful not to scratch the frame or door.
After drilling the holes then you'll need to install new door knob screws. Buy the same dimensions as your old screws to avoid getting a handle that is too loose or tight. Installing a new latch and strike rod is also required. These aren't included in most door handle sets.
If you're in search of a reliable replacement for your interior door handle set look no further than the Amazon's Choice FAERSI two-piece chrome finish handle set. It's a factory-fit product and has received hundreds of 5-star reviews. It's a great option for replacing worn out or damaged door hardware on your Chevy.