Many homeowners want to keep their houses updated. For this updating purpose, they change the colour of the door and door handles and sometimes even completely replace the old door handles with new ones.
Here, the question arises: are door handles interchangeable? Yes, door handles are interchangeable, but while changing the door handles, you have to keep some key points in mind related to backset measurement, cross-bore diameter, and whether the handle is keyless or not.
Now, I will explain the interchanging of door handles and all the factors on which changing door handles depends.
Choosing The New Door Handle
When you want to replace your door handles, you want the door handles with both style and functionality. The door handles that enhance the beauty of your house along with providing security are the best option for doors.
There are many factors that influence the changing of door handles, such as backset measurements, key lock, bore diameter, and many more. All these factors are explained below in detail:
Do You Need Key Lock On Your Door Handles?
First of all, determine whether you need a door handle with a key lock or not. The door handles on the exterior door and spaces where you need privacy, such as bathrooms and bedrooms, have key locks.
While replacing the door handle, keep the space in your mind to choose the right handle for the right place.
Colour And Finish Of The Door Handle
The colour scheme and finishing of door handles have great significance because if they fit well with your interior, it enhances the complete look of your house. Choose the door handles according to the interior of your house. The misfit door handles can damage the look of your door and house.
Chrome and matt black are the best for modern interiors and Brass is always the best option for traditional interior style.
Size Of The Door Handle
Replacing door handles looks like a complicated process, but it is a very simple method. You can choose any size handle.
To get the right fit for your door, follow this simple guide:
Taking Measurements
Backset Measurement: Measure the distance between the outside edge of the door and the centre of the spindle hole. This is known as the backset length.
The standard backset measurement for door handles in traditional style is 45mm. However, this may vary by up to 57 mm in some doors for their proper working mechanism.
Cross Bore Diameter: Most cross-bores are 2 ⅛ inches in diameter; there are exceptions. Sometimes, a larger cross-bore requires a wider door knob and rosette.
Research Your Handles
Choose a new handle with cover plates that match your old handles, or choose a pair that will cover any existing holes or marks on your door from your old door handles.
Installation
Now you have the correct latch and all the essential materials to replace the door handle. Double-check the sizing of your strike plate set into the door jamb to ensure the latch you choose will fit correctly.
Now, you are ready to fix your new handles!
Changing Door Handles
Now you have all the correct measurements of the door handle. It's time to start changing the door handles.
Required Tools
- Philips’s screwdriver
- Flat head screwdriver
- New door handles
- Screws
- Measuring Tape
To install the door handles, you will follow the following steps:
Step 1: Wedge Open Your Door
- To install the new door handles, you have to remove the old door handles first.
- Wedge your door to keep it open, access it from both sides and easily complete the procedure.
Step 2: Check Your Handle
- Now you have to check your handle for all the screw points.
- Once you find all the screws, sometimes they are behind the cover plate of the door handle.
- Now unscrew the door handle to remove the cover plate.
Step 2: Taking Off The Old Door Handle
- After removing the cover plate now, remove screws from both sides of the door.
- Take off the door handles and remove the spindle easily.
Step 3: Removing The Old Latch
- Remove the latch by unscrewing all the screws inside the handle.
Step 4: Inserting The New Latch
- Now, all the old parts of the old door handle are removed from the door.
- Insert the new latch inside the door.
- Insert the smooth side of the latch in the same direction as the door closes.
Step 5: Place The New Door Handle
- Take the new door handle and fit it with the new spindle
- The latch and spindle should be aligned properly
Step 7:Insert The Spindle In The Door Hole, Through The Hole And Latch Mechanism
- Place the new latch in the hole of the door.
- Then, insert the spindle through the hole so that it shows on the other side of the door.
- Test the door by pulling down the handles before fitting screws to check that all the parts are working properly.
Step 9: Test Your New Handles
Now your door handles are interchanged. Pull down the lever to check that it is perfectly fitted in the door.
Conclusion
From the above discussion, it is clear that door handles are interchangeable, but you have to consider all the factors that affect the compatibility of door handles with the door. Now, by using the above guide, you can interchange your old door handles with the new ones without any hassle.