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Door Handle Replacement Tips From The Best In The Industry
Door Handle Replacement

Door handles seem like something minor however, if you don't like the style or design of them, or are finding them difficult to use then it's time to replace them. Installing a new door handle is easy if you have patience.

The majority of modern door handles come with cover plates that conceal the screws for an attractive appearance. However, you'll need to attach them separately if your new handle doesn't already have them.

Remove the old Handle

Door handles aren't just an essential for aesthetics of your home, but they're essential for security as they let you lock and unlock your door. Over time the door handle can begin to lose its grip or feel loose. It could also appear old and worn. This is a clear indication that it's time to replace your door handle.

One of the first signs that your door handle needs replacing is if it's becoming difficult to operate. This is a serious problem as you will no longer be capable of locking or unlocking the door, which could put your family and yourself at risk.

It is also a good idea to replace your door handle in the event that it's damaged or broken. A damaged or broken door handle can be dangerous, especially for children and elderly family members who may struggle to open it. They could be trapped. Fortunately, it's fairly easy to fix a broken door handle by simply replacing the handle that was broken.

Most modern door handles are standard size, so they are suitable for any door. If you aren't certain if your new door handle will work, take off the old one and measure the holes in its housing. This will help you to purchase the right size door handle.

It is the easiest method to remove the door handle by removing it from the door. This is typically done with a screw driver. Some door handles have an enclosure plate that hides the screws that mount them. You'll need to remove it to get to the screws. After removing the old handle, take note of the way the spindle is attached. This will help you align the new handle.

You can also remove the door handle by unscrewing the latch mechanism. This is usually done with a screwdriver but you'll need to locate the small latch, which is located at the edge of the trim piece. After you have removed the latch, take off the handle and the strike plate. Then, remove the latch from the door's edge.

Remove the Strike Plate

You'll have to replace your latch plate after replacing the handle. This is the plate that is the one that holds the hole in which the latch of the door hooks when the door closes. The box that the new handles are packaged in will have two latch plates - one that is rectangular and the other a circular one (see the diagram above for 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 into the strike plate, making the handle easier to use.

The first step is to loosen the screw that's holding the latch plate in place. These screws are often tight, and may require some force to loosen. It is helpful to have a second person help with this part if possible.

The latch plate should easily be removed from the door after the screws have been removed. If the latch plate is stuck or refuses to move, use a small file to scrape the edges. This will sometimes free the plate.

Now you can prepare the new strike plate for installation. Install the latch plate in the door jamb using the screws that were included with the new handles. Be cautious not to tighten too much the screws, as this may cause damage to the strike plate.

If you're not sure whether the latch plate is in the correct position, try closing and then opening the door to determine whether it latches and closes correctly. If it does not you'll have to adjust the strikeplate up or down or forward or back until the door locks correctly.

If the door is still moving or jiggles, you might have to enlarge your latch hole on the strike plate. This is more common for older doors, but could also be caused by wear and tear hinge mortises that are not deep enough or are not sized correctly for the latch, or due to damaged or broken strike plate that is damaged or broken. If this is the case, use a metal filing instead of a chisel or hammer to adjust the strike plate.

Removal of the Latch

The latch is an angled metal piece that slides into and out of a hole in the inside of your door. When you turn the handle, it pushes the latch forward and allows you to open the door. It also hooks into an opening in the frame of the door to keep the door closed. If your door is wiggles when you close it, changing the latch could be the only thing needed to correct the issue.

The screws that support the door latch are difficult to see however, you can insert a screwdriver into a small hole on the trim plate, and then pull the latch off. After removal of the trim plate you should be able to take off the latch as well as the bolts that hold it and the spindle in position.

If the latch doesn't easily be released, try using an old-fashioned paper clip or tool to free it from the handle mechanism. Insert the item into the recessed latch slot and gently twist or jiggle it until you feel the latch and handle start to separate. You may need to repeat this process several times before you are able to pull the latch out.

It should be possible to slide the new latch into its slot without issues after you've removed the old one. Make sure that the latch is positioned correctly in the slot and aligned with the screw chambers and then use your new screws to secure it to the strike plate and door frame.

Before you install the new handle, be sure to measure your existing backset (the distance from the center of the big hole on the front of the door to the edge). Make sure that the size of the latch of the new handle matches the measurement.

If you are replacing the latch or handle or handle, or if the old lock cylinder is damaged, then you'll require a new one. If you're not changing locks the new lock will fit into your existing recess, and work with the keys you have already. Choose a latch that has rectangular cover plates to match your old handles.

Removal of the Cover Plate

You can replace your old door handles with a new lever and rose design to make a difference in the appearance of your home. You can buy complete sets that include the escutcheons as well as privacy adaptors and escutcheons.


To replace an internal door handle remove the cover plate (or rose) that covers the screws and mechanism. Utilize a flathead to take off the plate. It could have a slot on one edge or be secured by pins.

Remove the screw holding the handle inside and put it aside after the cover plate has been removed. It is also necessary to remove the screws that hold the latch and plates and the latch plate, which can be done by loosening them with a Philips screwdriver. Remove the inner plates and latch from the door. Place them aside.

Not all doors have this gap. If it doesn't then you'll have to drill a hole in the door to accommodate the new handle. The procedure to do this is similar to the procedure for opening a door with a lock, but you'll have to be extra careful to avoid damaging the frame or door.

The installation of new door knob screws is required after the holes have been made. Choose the same size as the old screws to ensure that you don't get a handle that is too loose or tight. You'll also have to install an additional latch plate and strike rod that aren't part of the majority of door handle sets.

If you're looking for a quality replacement interior door handle set Try the Amazon's Choice FAERSI two-piece chrome-finished handle set. It is a factory-fit and has received hundreds of 5-star reviews. It's a great choice for replacing worn or damaged door handle hardware inside your Chevy HHR.