window handles may seem like something minor however, if you don't like the style or design of them, or find them difficult to use then it's time to replace them. With some patience, you can put in the new handle in no time.
The majority of modern door handles come with cover plates that hide the screws for an attractive appearance. If your new handle doesn't have them already connected, you'll need to attach them separately.
Remove the old handle
Door handles aren't just an an important aesthetic addition to your home, but they're also essential for security as they let you lock and unlock your door. As time passes the door handle can start to lose its grip or feel a bit loose. It may also appear worn out and old. This is a good indication that it's time to replace the door handle.
If your door handle is becoming difficult to use, it may be time to replace it. This is a problem because it means that you can no longer lock or unlock your door which could be a security risk for you and your family.
Another reason to replace your door handle is when it's damaged or broken. A broken door handle is dangerous, especially for children and elderly family members who struggle to open it. They could become trapped. It's a good thing that it's easy to fix a broken door handle by replacing the old one.
Most modern door handles are a standard size, so they are suitable for any door. If you're not sure if the new door handle you are buying will work, take out the old one and measure its housing holes. This will help you buy the right door handle.
The most straightforward method to remove your old door handle is to remove it from the door itself. Usually you'll need a screwdriver. However certain door handles come with the cover plate which hides the mounting screws, so you'll need to remove this to reach the screws beneath. Once you've removed your old handle, make a note of how the spindle is positioned to ensure that you can align it when you fit the new one.
You can also remove the door handle by depressing the latch mechanism. This is usually done using a screwdriver but you'll need to find the small latch, which is located on the edge of the trim piece. Once you've removed the latch, take the handle off the strike plate, and then the latch away from the door's edge.
Removal of the Strike Plate
When you replace the handle, you'll be required to replace the latch plate that holds the hole which the door's latch hooks into when it closes. The packaging that the new handles come in will have two latch plates: either a rectangular or a circular one (see the above diagram that outlines door handle parts). If you have an old rectangular latch plate, replace it with a round one. This will allow the latch to be able to hook onto the strike plate, making the handle easier to use.
The first step is to remove the screw holding the old latch plate. The screws can be very tight, and may require some force to loosen. It may be helpful to have a second person assist with this task if you can.
The latch plate should easily come out of the door after the screws have been removed. If it is stuck or doesn't move using a nail file to scrape the edges of the latch plate. This can help loosen the plate.
You can now move on to making the new door strike plate for installation. Screw the latch plate into the door jamb using the screws that were included with your new handles. Don't over tighten your screws because this could cause damage to the strike plate.
If you're not sure if the latch plate is in the proper position Try closing and opening the door to see whether it locks and closes correctly. If it doesn't then you'll have to adjust the strike plate up or down, or move it forward or back until the door shuts and latches properly.
If the door is jiggling or moving, you may need to enlarge the hole for latching in the strike plate. This is more common for older doors, but could be due to wear and tear hinge mortises that are too shallow or the wrong size for the latch, or because of damaged or broken strike plate. If this is the situation 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 in and out of a hole in the inside of your door. When you turn the handle, it pushes this latch forward, allowing you to open the door. It also hooks in the door's frame so that the door is closed. If your door is wiggles when you close it, changing the latch may be the only thing needed to fix it.
It's difficult to see the screws that secure the latch to the door, however there's usually a small hole on the trim plate that permits you to insert a screwdriver into the slot and take it off. After you've removed your 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 isn't easily removed using a paperclip or tool to remove 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 handle and latch start to split. It is possible to repeat this procedure several times before you are able to remove the latch.
Once the old latch is removed and the old latch is removed, you should be able to move the new latch into the slot without any issues. Make use of the new screws to attach the latch to the strike plate or door frame. Make sure that it is properly positioned in the slot, and aligned with the screw chambers.
Before installing the new handle, make sure to measure your existing backset (the distance from the center of the large hole on the front surface of the door to the edge). Also, ensure that the latch size on the new handle is in line with the measurement of your existing handle.
If you're replacing the latch or handle or handle, or if the old lock cylinder is damaged then you will need a new one. If you're not changing the locks however, a new latch will fit in the existing recess and work with the keys you have currently. Be sure to select a latch with rectangular cover plates that match the handles you have.
Removing the Cover Plate
Door handles can begin to look worn over time If you replace them with a modern lever on rose design it's an easy and quick DIY project and decorating idea that can improve the overall appearance of your home. You can purchase complete sets that include matching escutcheons and privacy adaptor kits.
The first step to replace an internal door handle is to remove the cover plate or rose, which conceals the screws and mechanism inside. Look for an opening tab on the plate, and use a flathead screwdriver to lift it off the knob. It may have a slot on one edge or be secured by pins.
When the cover plate is off take the screw that holds the inside handle in place, and then set it aside. Remove the screws that secure both the inner and outer plates. You can loosen them with the help of a Philips Screwdriver. Take the inner plates and latch from the door. Set them aside.
Most doors have gaps between the door jamb and the edge of the frame that makes room for a handle, but not all do. If yours does not allow for a handle, you'll have to make a hole in the door. This is the same process as opening a locked door, but you will need to be extra careful not to damage the frame or door.
After the holes are drilled, you'll need to install new screws for the door knob. Purchase the same dimensions as your old screws to avoid getting the handle that is too loose or tight. It's also necessary to install the new strike rod and latch plate, which aren't included with the majority of 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-finished handle set. It is a factory-fit and has received hundreds five-star reviews. It's a great option to replace worn or damaged door hardware on your Chevy.