Guide on How to Replace a Door Handle

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Content

Eliminating the Current Handle

Mounting the New Handle

Swapping out a door handle or knob merely necessitates acquiring a new door handle set and wielding a flat-head screwdriver. Whether you're seeking to rectify a worn-out door knob or enhance a door's aesthetics with a fresh handle, the process of replacing the existing handle remains straightforward. Select a door handle set that suits your preference from a hardware store or home improvement center, and prepare your screwdriver—soon enough, your door will boast a whole new look and feel!

Procedures

Eliminating the Current Handle

Open the door and insert a door stop beneath the bottom edge. Open the door halfway to access both sides of the door handle with ease. Place a door stop beneath the door's bottom edge to prevent movement and closure while you swap the handle.

If you lack a door stop, utilize a wedge-shaped piece of wood or any similar object found around your home that fits beneath the door.

Depress the pressure release on the handle using a screwdriver and detach it. Locate a small slot either on the side of the door knob or handle where it connects to the cover plate, or on the side of the cover plate flush against the door. Insert the flat-head screwdriver into the slot, apply pressure, and then pull off the handle or knob.

Cover plates are the round or rectangular plates situated between the handle or knob and the door, concealing the inner workings and enhancing the appearance of the door handle.
If you don't find this pressure slot, try unscrewing or pulling off the knobs or handles. Different types of handles detach differently.
Some handle types may not detach separately. If yours seem inseparable, skip this step. For example, if your handle has a rectangular plate, it might be attached to the plate and will come off with it.

Loosen and remove the cover plates of the door handle. Eliminate any screws securing the cover plates on each side of the door using a flat-head screwdriver. Slide the edge of the screwdriver under the plates, gently pry them up until they release, then remove and set them aside.

Not all cover plates are secured with screws; some may simply snap into place, so use your screwdriver to pry them off. Look for a slot on the side or bottom of the cover plate to insert your screwdriver for prying.
Round cover plates may screw on, so attempt to turn them counterclockwise if you can't remove them by unscrewing or prying.

Remove the screws holding the latch and inner plates. Unscrew and take out the screws securing the latch on the interior edge of the door. Remove the screws holding the inner plates on both sides of the door.

The inner plates are located directly beneath the previously removed cover plates. They secure the door handle's latching mechanism inside the door hole.
The latch is the angled metal piece that moves in and out of the hole on the interior edge of the door. It hooks into a hole in the door frame to keep the door closed and retracts when you turn the handle to open the door.

Extract the latch plate and door latch mechanism. Gently pull out the latch plate and mechanism from the hole on the interior edge of the door and set them aside. Remove the plates from both sides of the door and keep them aside as well.

You should now have empty holes in your door where you can install a new door handle.

Mounting the New Handle

Select a new door handle that matches your door. Utilize a tape measure to gauge from the inner edge of the door to the center of the hole to determine the backset measurement. Then, opt for a handle that corresponds to this backset. Choose a handle or knob with cover plates of the same shape and size as the old ones to conceal any marks on your door's surface, such as screw holes and scratches.

Most door handles feature a standard backset of 60 mm or 70 mm, making it easy to find a replacement that fits the existing holes in your door.
For instance, if your previous door handle had rectangular cover plates, it's advisable to stick with a new handle featuring similar rectangular cover plates rather than switching to round ones.

Insert the new handle's latch into the hole on the inside edge of the door. Position the latch so that the smooth angled part faces the same direction as the door closes. Slide the latch mechanism into the hole until the latch plate sits flush against the inside edge of the door in the old latch recess.

Door handle latches typically come in a standard size, ensuring that the new latch fits into the old recess seamlessly. If it doesn't fit properly, adjustments to the depth and shape of the recess can be made using a chisel.

Secure the new handle's inner plates to the door. Align the cylinders on the inner plates with the corresponding holes in the latch mechanism and slide them into position. Use the provided screws and a screwdriver to secure the plates flush against the door.

If the inner plates differ from each other, refer to the instructions provided with your new handle to determine which one should be placed on the inside and which one on the outside of the door.

Attach the cover plates onto the inner plates. Slide the new cover plates onto the inner plates and press them until they snap into place. Use the provided screws and screwdriver to fasten the plates securely.

Both cover plates should be identical since they serve as cosmetic covers for the inner plates.

Install the new knobs or handles. Slide the outer knob or handle onto the handle mechanism's cylinder on the exterior of the door and press it until it snaps into position. Repeat the process for the inner knob or handle.

Keep in mind that some knobs and handles require screwing. If you see threads on the handle mechanism cylinders, screw the knobs or handles instead of pressing them into place.
If your new door handles are already attached to the cover plates, there's no need to install them separately. They will already be in place once you attach the new cover plates to the door.

Consider replacing any additional locks and deadbolts on the door for uniformity. Opt for locks and deadbolts that complement your new door handle to refresh the overall appearance of the door hardware. Remove the old locks and deadbolts, then install the new ones and secure them with the provided screws to complete the hardware upgrade.

This step is optional and mainly relevant if the new handle significantly differs from the existing door hardware.
For instance, if your front door features a silver deadbolt lock and you've replaced the old handle with a new silver one, the difference may not be noticeable. However, if the new handle is gold, updating the locks would be advisable.

Pro Tips

The general procedure for replacing any door knob or handle is usually consistent. Nonetheless, always consult the manufacturer's instructions for any specific guidelines before installing the new handle.
If it's a locking handle, pay attention to the ANSI or BHMA lock grade for optimal security and durability (ANSI Grade 1 or BHMA Grade AAA).
Ensure the lock matches your current keyway to facilitate rekeying with your existing key, minimizing the need for multiple keys. The hardware store where you purchase the hardware can assist in matching keyways.

Cautionary Notes

Modern door handles typically adhere to standard sizing. However, if replacing an old handle, the housing holes in your door may vary in size. If so, it's advisable to remove the old handle first and measure the housing holes before purchasing a new door handle.

Essential Materials

Door handle kit
Flat-head screwdriver
Tape measure

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basic steps to replace a door handle?

To replace a door handle, start by removing the existing handle with a flat-head screwdriver. Next, detach cover plates and screws, extract the latch mechanism, and install the new handle's latch. Finally, secure the inner and outer plates, attach cover plates, and finish by upgrading locks if desired.

How do I choose the right door handle for my door?

Selecting the right door handle involves measuring the backset from the edge of the door to the center of the hole. Choose a handle that matches this measurement and has cover plates similar in shape and size to ensure a proper fit.

Can I replace my door handle without professional help?

Yes, replacing a door handle is a straightforward process that you can do yourself. With basic tools like a screwdriver and a tape measure, you can easily swap out the handle while following the provided steps.

What tools do I need to replace a door handle?

To replace a door handle, you'll need a door handle kit, a flat-head screwdriver, and a tape measure. These tools will allow you to remove the old handle and properly install the new one.

Is it necessary to replace the locks when changing door handles?

Not necessarily, but it's advisable. If your new door handle differs significantly in style or color, updating the locks can provide a uniform look. However, if the colors match, you can keep the existing locks.