french door lock repairs - Upgrade the Look of Your French Doors
Door handles are essential to protect your home from elements from the outside. Door handles are also a prominent feature that can set the tone for your interior aesthetic.
Most French doors have two handles, one that's functional and the other is purely decorative. This handle that is not functional is often called a dummy handle.
Replacement
A new handle can be an affordable way to update the look of French doors. If your doors are old and in need of replacement or you're remodeling your home, it's essential to select top quality handles that can endure the test of time and weather the elements. The best handles are made of stainless steel as it is antibacterial and easy to clean. They also have a brushed finish that wards off fingerprints and is less likely to show scratches or rust over time.
Handle sets are available in various designs and finishes, so you're certain to find something that complements your style and decor. Certain styles of handles are more decorative than others, and some come with a lock that is integrated for additional security. You can also get keys-operated handles that are ideal for homes with children. Certain handles are more expensive than others, however it's important to look at your budget when selecting a set.
Determine the best configuration for your French door prior to buying the handle. If you have interior doors that open in a separate manner, you may want to have two handles. One handle will lock while the other one won't. This will help you decide if you require a handle that rotates or a fixed one. It is also important to decide whether you want the door to to lock from both sides.
Most external doors require a key to unlock the door, so you'll need locks that allow you to accomplish this. You can pick a simple Yale lock or a multipoint locking system to secure your French doors. Certain systems let you lock the top and bottom of the door at once while some require you unlock both the top and bottom.
If you're ready to put in your new handle, you must first locate the actuator slot. It's a cylindrical slot that connects the latch. It is possible to locate a hole for this in the door frame but you must measure it carefully and use the spirit level to ensure that the holes are straight. You should also get an appropriate hole-boring template when you purchase your handle to assist you make the correct measurements.
Installation
Although door handles may appear like a minor accessory however they play an important part in your french doors' functionality, security and even aesthetics. It's the reason it's essential to select high-quality handles that will stand up to regular use and won't require frequent replacement or repair.
Depending on the design you prefer and the purpose of your doors, you might require different types of handles. But regardless of your preferred style and purpose the process of installation is almost identical. You'll need to take off your handles that are currently in use and clean the area you plan to install the new ones. Drill holes in the door where you intend to mount the handle set. Follow the instructions included with your hardware so that you can bore the holes correctly to let the lock mechanism to fit.
Then, insert the lock bolt into the hole on the door's edge and connect it with the actuator. The actuator is a cylindrical insert that has a slot which the bolt goes. If you're unsure about the assembly's order, consult your instructions.
After that, fix the plate to cover the latching and locking mechanisms on the side that is active on the door. You must then check the latch and lock to ensure that they work properly. After you're satisfied with the results, repeat the same process on the mock side of the door, and install the handle that is not functional.
It's essential to be patient and attentive during the process. If you rush through the process you could end with a set handles that don't work properly or look attractive. You should always seek out an expert to ensure best outcomes. You'll then be able enjoy your beautiful french doors for years to be.
Compatibility
The kind of handle you select for your french doors will depend on the way you plan to make use of them. If you intend to use them as closets, you might want to use decorative handles instead of locking hardware. If you're using them to bedrooms or dining areas However, you'll require locking hardware that allows to be used with ease while providing security against forced entry. The handle you choose for your french doors must also be able to work with the type of locks that are already installed. Get a professional's help to make sure the lock is simple to operate. CD Windows has experts who can assist you in choosing the correct handle.
When it is about French Door Handles, there are many different options available. Certain handles for French doors have built-in locking systems, eliminating the requirement for an additional locking system. Others come with deadbolts and latches that are activated by the handle for extra security. You'll want to make sure that the handles you select are compatible with the hardware you already have, and also will work with the type and design of the door.
It is also important to consider whether you would like your handle sets to lock on one or both sides. French doors are two doors that are connected and require an entirely different mechanism than single doors. If you want a solution that locks both sides, then you'll need a handle set with a lock made for double doors.
In most instances, the handles that you put on the active French Door will have openings in the plates that can accept the latch and lock bolt. The Dummy handle, on other hand, will be only decorative. These handles are used in areas that aren't used frequently, such as bathrooms and bedrooms.
Maintenance
It is crucial to take care of the handles on your doors, as they are the most frequently used part of your doors. Over time, they can be stained or tarnished. They may also lose their shine. The correct cleaning solution will bring them back to their former splendor. The most common and gentlest cleaner is an mild soap solution however, you must wash and dry off any moisture afterward to avoid corrosion and damage.
Brass handles are particularly prone to tarnishing, but you can reduce the risk by keeping them clean. To remove dust and dirt clean the brass surface with warm tap water. Then use a soft cloth. Then, make a mixture of baking soda and lemon to remove any tarnish. Once you've removed the tarnish, finish by polishing the handle with a stainless steel-specific cleaner. Using the correct product for your particular material will give you a smooth and shiny finish that will last for years.
A squeaky or stiff door handle can be incredibly frustrating, but it's something that is often easily fixed. First, you should check whether there aren't any small objects or debris caught inside the locking mechanism of the door, as this could be the cause of your issue. If this isn't the case it could be that you just need to lubricate the inner workings of the door handle to fix the issue.
WD-40 is a multi-use product with a formula that is specially designed to work quickly to help you lubricate your equipment. Applying a generous amount the liquid to your door handle will assist it to move smoothly and stop squeaking. Use a Flexible Straw or a brush to get in every crevice and nook of your French door handle.
While the process of replacing a french door handle is quite simple, you'll need to take some care when drilling holes for the new handles. This is because different door styles have different holes in the frame and door. This makes it important to match the holes when installing the new handles. Make sure that the cylinder pin, which is the metal piece that runs through the entire lock mechanism, is fitted correctly.