It’s not a very difficult job to replace a sliding door handle yourself. The majority of manufacturers make the same types of door handles, so it’s simply a case of removing your old one and replacing it with another. The process normally takes about 1 – 3 hours in total.

It’s also easy to replace a sliding door handle with a lock and handle system. But, whilst the easiest option is replacing a sliding door handle with a new handle that’s exactly the same, you could also try to fit a different type to improve your door’s functionality and look. Luckily, there’s many different companies that also sell sliding door handles, so you’ll have a big range to choose from.

Removing The Old Handle

First of all, slide the door open so you can remove the existing handle. You can do it by simply sliding it back and wedging it open with a heavy object like a brick. This way, the door is secure and can’t be moved or pulled shut.

Once you start the process, you’ll need to remove the screws that surround the edge of the handle. Once you have removed the screws, the handle should simply just come off with ease. However, if the handle has been on the door for quite a long time, then you may need to use a flat-headed screwdriver to pry it off. If this is the case, then you should be careful as you don’t want to cause any damage.

Figure Out The Size of The New Handle You Need

Now that you have removed the old handle, now you need to measure the hole you have in your door. It’s important to remember or write down the width and length of the handle and lock you need. You will also need to know the manufacturer who made your sliding door. This isn’t very hard to find out.

Just look around the edges of the door, and you should find the company’s logo somewhere. This will also prove helpful if you are looking for door handle accessories too. If this is the case, then we highly recommend DG Supplyline based in Southend-on-Sea. They offer a huge range of door accessories, including lever, pad, and fixed pull handles and are locally trusted by both the public and by trade professionals.

Fitting the New Handle

Once you’ve scanned the shops and have your new sliding door handle, you can then move onto fitting it to your door. If you’ve chosen a mounted handle, then you’ll find the process of fitting it really easy. However, you need to use a drill and some new holes in order to get the screwed lined up correctly so that the handle fits properly. If you’ve chosen a mortice lock which is designed to be rebated within the inside of the doors itself, then you may run into more problems.

Push the handle into the frame, and then once this is in place, you can then fit the lock within it, which is a relatively simple process. You’ll then be able to slide the screws into the same holes and push the handle into position. If you do need to drill some new holes in order to fit the handle, then you need to make sure that you seal any unwanted hole with some putty in order to keep the door looking great.

Easier Than You First Thought?

As you can now see, fitting a new sliding door handle is a lot easier than you may have first thought. Maybe you’re thinking about replacing your existing door handle and thought that you’d need to hire a professional to do the job. But, now you don’t have to, and this can save you a considerable amount of money. However, it’s important to mention that if you don’t feel confident enough to replace your door handle or you have a complex locking system, you should seek assistance to avoid damaging your door.