Using Handles and Hinges

Install and replace handles and hinges

By Thomas Langford
Handles and hinges are essential to the function of any door, so it is essential that they work properly. Beyond that, broken or missing door handles, cabinet handles, door hinges and cabinet hinges can give customers a bad impression of your business. So chances are, you'll want to fix any broken handles and hinges as quickly as possible.

When you start using handles and hinges, you'll find they are fairly easy to install and replace. This guide will help you do that by showing you how to:

1. Install door and cabinet hinges;

2. Install door and cabinet handles;

3. And replace missing door and cabinet handles and hinges.

 

Install door and cabinet hinges

Installing and repairing door and cabinet hinges, even industrial hinges, is a task that most people should be able to handle with ease. You'll need some basic information on hinges, along with the hinge hardware and a few basic tools, such as a screwdriver, level and hammer.
Try: Check out eHow for easy-to-follow directions on how to install hinges. The process is broken down into nine simple steps. If you prefer to see a demonstration on how to install hinges, go to Expert Village. A minute-and-a-half-long video will walk you through the entire process.

Install door and cabinet handles

Commercial and industrial handles are even easier to install than hinges. You just need some basic tools, including a screwdriver or drill, and about a half hour of time.
Try: For a step-by-step guide with written directions and pictures, take a look at HammerZone.com. The directions cover everything from drilling a hole in the door to installing the striker plate. The DoorKnobDiscountCenter.com has detailed installation instructions that are specific to many popular brands of door knobs and handles.

Find replacement handles and hinges

A broken door handle or hinge can go from a small problem to a major frustration when you can't find a matching replacement part, especially if the broken handle or hinge is in an area that is visited by customers or clients. So an important part of working with handles and hinges is to be able to find replacement parts quickly. Start by contacting the handle or hinge manufacturer. If that doesn't work, visit one of the websites that carry a robust selection of replacement handles and hinges.
Try: Spokane Hardware Supply has nearly 500 different door handles and knobs in its inventory. If it doesn't stock your exact handle, chances are it has something very similar. Allied Trade Group stocks nearly 150 styles of hinges. If you can't find what you need on its website, the company's sales reps will try to help you track it down.

 

  • When replacing handles and hinges with a different product, make sure that the replacement handle or hinge is the same size as the existing handle or hinge.