Although installing a door handle may seem like a straightforward do-it-yourself project, a smooth and polished finish require careful planning, the right equipment, and precise measurements. This tutorial will help you through every step of the process, whether you're installing a new handle or replacing an old one, making sure the handle fits effectively and securely. Everything from picking the ideal handle for your door to making sure the alignment and finish are flawless will be covered in this article. Now let's get started!
1. Types of Door Handles
Understanding the many door handle options is crucial before we start the installation procedure. Selecting the ideal one for your door can improve its appearance and functionality.
a. Lever Handles on Backplate
Handles of Backplate is a classical home style that is timeless. A round or rectangular backplate that is fastened to the door holds the handle in place. Typically, it has a privacy lock mechanism or a keyhole.
b. Lever Handles on Rose
Lever handles on roses are a more contemporary version that are small and simple. They are frequently found in modern residences and are not usually equipped with a keyhole. If necessary, a different lock can be added.
c. Knob Handles
Knob handles are an elegant and classic choice that elevate any door. They are frequently used for interior doors and come in round or oval shapes. However, compared to lever handles, they take a little more work to turn.
d. Pull Handles
Frequently found on large, industrial, or sliding doors are these knobs. They are only used to pull the door open or closed; they don't operate a latch.
e. Privacy or Bathroom Handles
These knobs are perfect for bathrooms or bedrooms because they have an integrated privacy lock. Typically, the locking mechanism is engaged by turning the thumb.
2. Tools and Materials Required
Prior to starting, gather all required equipment and materials for a seamless and effective installation. What you'll need is as follows:
- Door handle kit, including screws, spindle, and handle
- Measurement tape
- Pen
- Depending on the screws, a flathead or Phillips screwdriver
- Drill and bits (pilot holes typically require 2 mm and 25 mm).
- Hammer and chisel
- Spirit degree
- Tape for masking
- If you need to hide any holes when replacing an old handle, use wood filler.
- sandpaper
- Gloves and safety glasses are optional but advised.
3. Preparation and Safety Measures
a. Check the Door and Handle Compatibility
Make sure the handle you've selected fits your door before you begin. Various handle sizes or spindle kinds may be needed depending on the thickness of the door. To ensure that the handle you choose will fit, measure the thickness of your door.
b. Remove the Old Handle (if applicable)
Carefully detach the previous handle, latch, and any locking mechanisms if you're replacing an existing handle. After the wood filler has dried, smooth down the affected area and cover any unsightly holes.
c. Marking the Position
When installing a door handle, positioning is crucial. A handle's typical height from the floor is typically between 900 and 1050 mm. Mark the desired height using a tape measure, then use a spirit level to make sure the door is level before drawing a pencil horizontal line across it.
d. Safety First
Put on protective glasses if you're using a drill or other power equipment. Additionally, exercise caution when chipping wood to prevent harm.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Fitting a Door Handle
Now that you're ready, let's walk through each step of the installation procedure.
a. Drilling and marking the spindle hole
- After marking the handle's appropriate height, you must record the thickness of the door at its center, which is usually halfway across its width.
- Create a perforation in the door for the spindle. The spindle size determines the size of this hole, but a 25mm bit works well for most door knobs. To keep the wood from splintering, drill the hole all the way through from one side and then complete it from the other.
b. Installing the Latch Mechanism
- Make sure the latch precisely lines up with the spindle hole by marking its location on the door's edge.
- To make room for the latch, drill a hole in the door edge using a 25mm bit. The hole shouldn't go all the way through the door; it should just be deep enough to hold the latch.
- Mark the area where you'll need to chisel by drawing around the latch's faceplate after inserting the latch into the hole.
- Make a recess for the latch faceplate with a chisel and hammer. It need to be level with the border of the door.
- After the chiseling of the depression, position the latch within and tighten the lock.
c. Fitting the Handles
- Make that the latch mechanism operates smoothly by inserting the spindle through it.
- Place the door's handles in their proper positions. Certain handle sets have extra fittings, such as a backplate or rose, which must be correctly aligned.
- After lining up, fasten the handle with screws to the door. It's a good idea to temporarily secure the handle while screwing in the inserts using masking tape.
d. Attaching the Strike Plate
- To see where the latch meets the door frame, close the door. The strike plate should be marked here.
- Make a recess for the striking plate on the door frame using the same method with the chisel.
- Make sure the strike plate is correctly aligned with the latch by drilling holes for the screws before attaching it.
e. Testing the Handle
Make sure the handle works properly by testing it before tightening everything down entirely. The door should open and close effortlessly, and the latch should retract with ease.
5. Tips for Fitting Door Handles on Different Types of Doors
The way you fit the handle may need to be slightly different depending on the kind and substance of door.
a. Doors with Hollow Cores
Because hollow-core doors are smaller and lighter than solid doors, the handle may need to be secured in place using specific hollow-door anchors. When drilling, take care not to use too much force as this could cause the door to split or break.
b. Doors Made of Solid Wood
Although these doors can be more difficult to drill through, they offer a more firm surface for installing handles. Be patient, especially when chiselling for the latch and strike plate, and make sure your drill bits are crisp.
C. Composite or uPVC Doors
Handle sets made specifically for composite or uPVC doors must be installed on these types of doors. The screws used for securing the handle must have sufficient length to go through the door material and secure it on both sides.
d. Fire Safety Doors
It is essential to make sure that any hardware used when installing a handle on a fire-rated door conforms with fire safety requirements. For this kind of installation, always seek the advice of an expert.
6. Troubleshooting Common Problems
When installing a door handle, the following typical problems can arise and how to resolve them:
a. Manage Feelings Uncertain
A loose handle could be the result of improperly tightened screws. Verify that the spindle slides smoothly through the latch and that all of the screws are tight.
b. Sticking Latch
Misalignment could be the cause of a sticky latch. Verify that the strike plate and latch are properly aligned and that the latch is centered in the door. Make sure the latch faceplate is flush with the edge of the door as well.
C. Managing Not Going Back to the Horizontal Position
This could be the result of a handle mechanism return spring that is damaged or weak. In this case, you might need to replace the handle.
d. Uneven Strike Plate
Verify the plate's alignment if the latch isn't fitting into the strike plate smoothly. It could be necessary to move things about or slightly increase the strike plate hole.
7. Maintaining Your Door Handle
After the handle is installed, it needs to be regularly maintained to make sure it keeps working well for many years. Here are some pointers:
- Lubrication: To keep the latch mechanism functioning properly, lightly lubricate it with graphite powder or another lubricant.
- Tightening Screws: Daily use over time can cause screws to become loose. Check for loose screws on a regular basis and tighten them.
- Cleaning: If the handle is made of brass or stainless steel, clean it down on a regular basis using a moist cloth. Use the proper polish on brass handles to maintain their shine.
- Replacing Springs: The internal springs may need to be changed if the handle begins to droop or fails to return to its initial position.
Installing a door handle is a reasonably easy do-it-yourself project that may significantly improve the look and functioning of your door. You can install your new handle precisely and easily if you follow the instructions in this guide. The secret to success, whether you're working with a conventional knob or a contemporary lever handle, is patience, precise measurement, and thorough planning.
Your new door handle will last you many years if you give it routine care. Thus, prepare your equipment and relish the fulfillment that comes from finishing this project by yourself!
For more information about our interior or exterior doors or door accessories, give us a call at 01603 622261 and speak to a member of our expert team today or Email us at sales@doorsuppliesonline.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.