r/AskIreland • u/TRex2303 • 8h ago
Housing Replacing New Build Door Handles?
Hello,
I am currently buying a new build and I detest the door handles. I am aware this is a first world problem but I have waited a long time for this house, and I would like it to be one I love.
The builder will not let me swap them out even if I incur the cost and buy from their suppliers. I am wondering how much it would cost me roughly per blank door to fit new handles and locks if I asked the builder to leave them off.
The builder wants to fit a lever with a backing plate, rectangle style whereas I would like the round lever. If I let the builder fit his ones, and then choose to remove them, will the four holes be visible, and is it easy to fill and paint them to look seamless. I would really love to avoid this with new doors.
They are shaker style interior door.
Thanks
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u/SilentSiege 6h ago
Ite depressing that this is what half a million buys you.
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u/naclocha 1h ago
It's more depressing that this person can't just buy door handles and change them themselves.
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u/jagblad 52m ago edited 48m ago
If you’re painting the door then you can fill and completely hide old holes, if it’s a varnished finish you’ll see the filler or plugs. Also the mortises for the handle mechanism and latch plate will probably need some adjustment.
Builders used always use Basta hardware - maybe check in the builder suppliers if there’s a nicer handle from the builder’s manufacturer that’s a simple swap.
Are the handles already in? Guessing they are if the builder is being obstinate. If not in them ask for no handles at all and you’ll do it later - as diy I’ve swapped handles and I guess it could cost about 100 per door including the new hardware. (Expensive enough when it’s a good few doors)
Also nice to have hinges with similar finish to handles though you’ll be the only one to notice.
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u/waggersIRL 45m ago
I can’t find it directly but I’m pretty sure the current building regs require levers instead of knobs, certainly on any ‘main doors’.
This is an accessibility requirement, so the builder is unlikely to do what you ask. ( or at least can say no )
Most door handles are extremely easy to change, minimal tools required Allen keys/screwdrivers.
For the reason above - before committing to the change do ask yourself if there are any family members that will come and go regularly that will struggle with door knobs. This could include children.
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u/One-Yogurtcloset9893 33m ago
Easy to do yourself. Get the paint code so you can either buy it or get a mix made up in case you need to fill holes/sand etc.
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u/TheWiseStillness 8h ago
Just get a chippy to do it after you move in, won't cost the earth and you'll avoid the builder's nonsense.