If you have Andersen sliding patio doors that are over 20 years old, you may have noticed your door handles are looking a bit dated. Those vintage brass or nickel finishes just don’t match the modern aesthetic many homeowners prefer today. Fortunately, upgrading the handles is an easy and affordable way to refresh the look of your existing Andersen sliding doors.
You’ll learn how to select stylish new handles, shop for compatible options, and install the replacements yourself in less than an hour. Read on to give your vintage sliding patio doors some modern sparkle!
Assessing Your Existing Andersen Sliding Door Handles
Before shopping for replacements, you’ll need to assess the current handles on your Andersen sliding patio doors. Start by confirming the age of your doors–replacement handles are made to fit Andersen sliders manufactured between 1966 and 1999. If you don’t have the documentation, look for a small metal tag on the side of the door frame showing the production date.
Check the condition of the existing handles. Are they loose or wobbly? Have the finishes become tarnished, faded or discolored? Do your sliding doors stick or catch when you try to open them? If the handles are showing obvious wear or your doors aren’t gliding smoothly, replacement is likely worthwhile for both form and function.
Setting Your Goals for New Handles
It’s also helpful to consider what style and finish you’d prefer for new Andersen slider door handles before making a purchase. Would brushed nickel, oil rubbed bronze or a painted finish better match your home’s current decor? Should the new handles complement or intentionally contrast other hardware and fixtures? Setting style goals will make it easier to select the perfect handles.
Choosing New Andersen Sliding Door Handles
When you’re ready to pick new handles, you’ll discover lots of stylish options designed specifically for old Andersen patio doors. Top choices like Renewal by Andersen and Reflect Window & Door sell replacement parts directly compatible with vintage Andersen sliders. You can choose traditional curved handles or sleek modern stainless steel. Finishes range from satin nickel to rustic iron.
Modern Finishes for Vintage Doors
For a contemporary style, we recommend oil rubbed bronze or brushed nickel Andersen slider door replacement handles. These dark modern metals pair beautifully with most home aesthetics while covering up scratches better than polished brass. They also nicely complement neighborhoods with lots of contemporary architecture.
Ensuring Compatibility
When selecting replacement handles for your 1966-1999 Andersen sliding patio doors, double check they list “compatibility with vintage Andersen doors” or a compatible year range. You’ll also want to choose the properly sized handles for your door width. Consult the product detail listing or contact customer service if you have any questions before purchasing.
Shopping for New Replacement Handles
Now comes the fun part: ordering stylish new handles for your Andersen sliding patio doors. As mentioned, two top sources are Renewal by Andersen and Reflect Window & Door. Expect to invest $80-250 for a full handle set, depending on the quality, size and finishes you select. Keep in mind replacement handles are always sold separately from the doors themselves.
Sourcing High Quality Replacements
While big box stores or generic online retailers may carry cheaper slider door handles, those likely won’t fit your old Andersen unit properly. We recommend purchasing directly from an authorized Andersen dealer or parts retailer to ensure you get handles constructed specifically for compatibility. It’s worth investing a few extra dollars for quality reassurance and the proper fit.
Preparing for DIY Installation
One of the best parts about replacing your Andersen sliding patio door handles is that it’s a relatively easy DIY project. With a few standard tools and about an hour of time, you can swap out those worn old handles for modern new ones.
You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver, a step stool, and possibly a drill with Phillips head attachment if your old screws won’t budge. Protect nearby glass panes with painter’s tape and put on gloves to prevent hand injuries throughout the process. Double check you have all compatible existing hardware before starting handle removal.
Helpful Safety Tips
Here are a few quick pro tips as you prepare for handle installation:
- Keep doors secured open to avoid pinching fingers
- Use a helper for steadying on a step stool
- Set handles, screws and tools out on a towel to avoid losing small pieces
Removing the Old Sliding Door Handles
With your compatible replacement Andersen handles on hand, now comes handle removal. The process is straightforward, especially for simple aged brass handles common on vintage Andersen patio doors. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
- Locate the screws on the interior side of your existing handle using a screwdriver. There is typically one on each end.
- Using your Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screws securing each handle.
- Carefully slide the loose handle off the rail or stem at the base.
- Repeat these steps for the other handle on your double sliding doors.
Troubleshooting Stuck Screws
If your screws refuse to budge, try securing the screwdriver tightly in the grooves and applying penetrating lubricant like WD-40. Allow it to soak for 10-15 minutes then try again applying steady inward pressure as you turn. Using a powered drill on a low setting with Phillips head attachment can also help provide enough torque to get old, stuck screws moving.
Installing the New Replacement Handles
Once you have successfully removed the outdated handles, installing your attractive new Andersen sliding door replacements takes just a few minutes. Follow these instructions for flawless handle installation:
- Align the base of the new handle against the door, matching the placement of the old handle.
- Insert existing or included screw hardware into the pre-drilled holes.
- Use your Phillips head screwdriver to securely fasten the screws into each end of the handle.
- Repeat installation steps for the other replacement handle.
Double Checking Alignment
Be sure to step back and ensure your new handles align evenly on the door panels and sit flush against the surface. Adjust as needed for a seamless upgraded look.
Completing and Checking Your Upgrade
Once your new Andersen slider handles are fully installed, test sliding your doors open and closed a few times. The doors should glide smoothly without catching now that worn hardware has been replaced. Give the glass doors a fresh cleaning and admire how your formerly outdated handles have a sleek, modern update!
Depending on your budget and goals, you may also consider adding a new complementary deadbolt lock. Match finishes between the upgraded handle set and lock hardware for a cohesive style. Pro tip: save those vintage brass handles for a future craft project!
Maintaining and Troubleshooting
Follow manufacturer’s care recommendations to keep your new oil rubbed bronze or brushed nickel handles looking pristine for years. Occasional polishing with a soft cloth will preserve the finish well. If handles become loose over time, tighten the handle screws to restore stability.
For any issues with slide function in vintage Andersen patio doors, contact an authorized dealer or parts retailer to troubleshoot problems. They can provide correctly sized replacement rollers, locks and any other components needed to get your doors sliding smoothly again.
We hope following this guide to select, purchase and install replacement handles has helped you enhance your vintage 1966-1999 Andersen sliding patio doors affordably. With a bit of elbow grease and these update tips, those formerly outdated handles can now beautifully match your contemporary home decor style for years to come. Enjoy the refreshed style!
