Newly purchased quality door handles will last with normal usage for around 20 plus years. If they are abused lifetime is less. Cheaper door handles will last a few years before problems occur. And this all evolves around correct installation practices.
At some point in time you may want to change or have a need to change your door handles. This could be as soon as you move into your new but pre owned home. Perhaps later when renovating your home. When door handles are starting to fail and there is no choice but to replace them.
When we move into a new pre owned home we do not know how well the door hardware has been looked after, nor do we know the quality of that door hardware. It is an unknown that will come to light in time. However we may just want to replace those used door handles with fresh more appropriate to our taste door handles.
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Changing Door Handles
It depends on several factors such as:
The age and condition of your current door handles
How frequently the door handles are used
The level of wear and tear visible on the handles
If your door handles are showing signs of wear and tear, or if they are old and becoming difficult to use, it may be time to change them.
The time to change is when...
It depends on personal preference and the condition of the existing door handles. If the door handles are in good working condition, you may choose to keep them. However, if they are outdated, worn out, or not functional, changing them can improve the look and security of the house. It's also a good idea to change the door handles if you are concerned about the previous owner having copies of the keys.
You should change your door handles if:
They are broken or worn out
They are difficult to operate
They are no longer secure
They are outdated or no longer match your décor style.
You want to upgrade the aesthetic of your doors.
They are worn out, damaged, or difficult to operate
You are renovating or remodeling your home
You want to upgrade the look and style of your door handles
The door handles do not function properly and pose a security risk.
Quality vs Cheaply Made Door Handles
Yes, there is a difference between quality door handles and cheaply made door handles. Quality door handles are made from durable materials and are designed to last longer and provide a smooth operation. They are usually manufactured to meet specific standards for security, durability, and functionality.
Cheaply made door handles, on the other hand, are often made from lower-quality materials and are less durable. They may not function as smoothly and may not last as long. Cheaply made door handles can also be a security risk as they may be easier to break into.
In general, it is recommended to invest in quality door handles for better performance, durability, and security. The lifespan of door handles varies depending on several factors such as:
The type of material used for the handles
The frequency of usage
The quality of the handles
The level of maintenance
On average, door handles made of high-quality materials and with proper maintenance can last for 10-20 years. However, handles in high-traffic areas may need to be replaced sooner. Regular inspection and maintenance can help extend the lifespan of door handles.
We Don't Often Appreciate Our Door Handles
Wealthy homes sometimes have cheap door handles for a few reasons:
Cost cutting: Despite having a high budget for home renovation, some homeowners may choose to save on door handles as they are often not the main focus of the renovation.
Style preference: The door handles may have been selected for their design, rather than their quality. The homeowner may have preferred a certain look or style that could only be achieved with cheaper door handles.
Lack of knowledge: The homeowner may not have been aware of the difference between quality and cheaply made door handles and made a decision based on that lack of knowledge.
Maintenance: Cheaper door handles may be preferred in areas of the home that are not used frequently as they may not wear out as quickly.
It's worth noting that not all cheap door handles are low-quality, and some expensive door handles may not be worth the investment. It's important to consider factors such as durability, security, and functionality when choosing door handles, regardless of budget.
Is it easy to replace door handles?
Replacing door handles can be relatively easy for someone with basic DIY skills and the right tools. However, the difficulty level may vary depending on the type of door handle and the door itself.
For example, replacing a standard lever-style door handle on a standard interior door is usually a straightforward process that can be completed in a few steps. However, replacing a multi-point lock system on a front door may require more advanced skills and specialized tools.
In general, it's best to follow the manufacturer's instructions for replacing door handles. If you're unsure about your abilities, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional locksmith.
Can I change my door handles?
Yes, you can change your door handles. The process of replacing door handles can vary depending on the type of door handle and door you have, but it can typically be done with basic DIY skills and some common tools.
Before you start, you'll need to gather the necessary tools and supplies, including a drill, screwdrivers, and a new door handle set. You should also make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the new door handle set and the door.
If you're unsure about your ability to replace door handles, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional locksmith. They can help ensure that the door handles are installed properly and that the door is secure.
Locksmith or Handyman
If you decide to ask for assistance to replace your door handles, always make a few calls first. Primarily to obtain a quote from the person who will do the job. Cheap is not always better nor desirable. What you want is a professional job done correctly the first time.
Today, locksmiths who primarily look after locks, are also by necessity fixing carpenters and DIY tradespeople. Your handyman is someone who fixes general hardware problems around the home. A handy man is not a locksmith. A locksmith is a professional lock specialist and can also be a handyman.
There are quality handyman doing quality work around the home. There are professional locksmiths attempting to do DIY at the request of a customer.
How Do I Know A Skilled Person?
Here are some ways to determine if your locksmith/handyman is good at their job:
Ask for references: Ask for references from previous clients and contact them to hear about their experiences with the handyman.
Check credentials: Look for certifications or licenses to determine if the handyman is qualified to perform the job.
Look at their portfolio: Ask to see examples of previous work to determine their level of skill and experience.
Check online reviews: Look for online reviews from previous clients to see their feedback on the handyman's work.
Communicate clearly: Clearly communicate the scope of the job and ask for a detailed estimate. A professional handyman should be able to provide a clear and concise estimate.
Consider insurance: Make sure the handyman has liability insurance to protect you in case of any accidents or damages during the job.
Ask questions: Ask questions about their experience and process to gauge their level of expertise and professionalism.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you hire a trustworthy and skilled handyman for your job.
To be fare...
To be fare not everyone has a portfolio, online reviews, or references at hand. The best solution is to ask questions:
Have they done this type of job before?
Who can you call to verify their skill level?
Payment...
Agree to this before accepting the work. Only pay them after the job is completed to your satisfaction. Make this clear and if you feel the need have it written down and signed by both parties. Always ask for a detailed invoice.
If they are providing a quality service then they are obliged to provide evidence. If they are as good as they say then we will invite them back when needed. If they are rude, say thank you but good bye.
If you have doubts, use your mobile phone to video the procedures. But do not intrude or harass on the work process. Have a before and after video of the job in hand. If there are problems you have proof. If the job goes well you may like to offer the video up for their media page.
Conclusion
You may feel the need to change your door handles on the whim that they are not the right style for your interior design. You may just want to have new door handles to replace the old door handles. It can be as practical as upgrading because existing door handles are becoming problematic.
Whatever your reason for wanting to change your door handles, when you make the choice, choose wisely. This will be an expense you have to wear. When you have decided to replace your door handles, you then need to decide if it will be DIY or professional services.
All said and done, new door handles , smooth operation, functional and clean. The beauty of door handles although often ignored is the simplicity of opening and closing a door without a second thought.
We invite you to visit our showroom at Architectural Design Hardware for an inspirational look at the choices available to you. Visiting is free.