How to Change a Door Handle: A Step-by-Step Guide

Have you ever noticed how much you actually use a door handle? From entering your home to simply moving between rooms, these humble mechanisms are touched multiple times a day. A loose, broken, or simply outdated door handle can not only be an annoyance, but also a security risk and even detract from your home’s overall aesthetic. Replacing a door handle is a simple DIY project that can improve your home’s functionality and appearance without breaking the bank.

Knowing how to change a door handle empowers you to maintain your home yourself, saving you money on potentially expensive handyman fees. You can easily upgrade your home’s style with modern hardware, fix a broken latch, or even improve security by installing a higher-quality handle. The process is surprisingly straightforward, requiring only a few basic tools and a little bit of your time.

What tools do I need and how do I know which replacement handle to buy?

What type of screwdriver do I need?

Generally, you’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver, but some door handles may also require a flathead screwdriver. The specific size will depend on the screws used in your door handle assembly, but a standard size Phillips head (usually #2) and a medium-sized flathead should cover most situations. Having a set of different sizes on hand is always a good idea.

To determine exactly what you need, examine the screws currently in your door handle. If the screw head has a cross-shaped indentation, it’s a Phillips head. If it has a single, straight slot, it’s a flathead. The size of the screwdriver should fit snugly into the screw head. A screwdriver that’s too small will strip the screw head, making it difficult to remove, while one that’s too large won’t engage properly. It’s also helpful to consider the length of the screwdriver. For most door handles, a standard-length screwdriver will suffice, providing enough leverage to loosen and tighten the screws. However, if the screws are deeply recessed or located in a tight space, a shorter screwdriver might be necessary. A magnetic screwdriver can also be beneficial, preventing screws from dropping and getting lost inside the door.

How do I remove the old door handle?

Removing an old door handle typically involves loosening or removing screws that hold the handle and latch mechanism in place, then carefully pulling the handle components away from the door.

First, locate the screws on the interior side of the door handle. These screws usually secure the handle plates to the door. Use a screwdriver (usually a Phillips head, but sometimes a flathead) that fits properly to avoid stripping the screw heads. Unscrew these screws completely and set them aside. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to gently pull the interior handle plate away from the door. Next, address the exterior handle. With the interior side removed, you can often push the spindle (the square rod connecting the two handles) out from the exterior side. If the exterior handle plate is still attached, it may be held in place by a hidden set screw, or simply be tightly fitted. Look for a small hole on the side of the handle; this is where a small Allen wrench can be used to loosen a set screw. If there is no set screw, gently but firmly wiggle the exterior handle while pulling it away from the door. Finally, remove the latch mechanism from the edge of the door by unscrewing the screws holding the latch plate in place and sliding the latch out.

What if the screws are stripped?

Stripped screws are a common problem when replacing a door handle, making it difficult to remove the old hardware. Don’t panic! There are several techniques you can use to get those stubborn screws out, ranging from simple tricks to more involved solutions.

Stripped screws occur when the head of the screw is damaged, preventing a screwdriver from properly gripping and turning it. This is often caused by using the wrong size screwdriver, applying too much pressure, or simply due to wear and tear over time. Before resorting to more aggressive methods, try using a wider rubber band or steel wool between the screwdriver and the screw head. This can provide extra grip. Apply firm, steady pressure and try turning the screw slowly. If the rubber band or steel wool trick doesn’t work, consider using a screw extractor. These specialized tools are designed to bite into the damaged screw head and provide a new point of leverage for removal. You’ll typically need to drill a small pilot hole in the screw head before using the extractor, so make sure you have a drill and appropriate drill bits handy. Follow the instructions that come with your specific screw extractor kit carefully. Another option, although a bit more drastic, is to cut a new slot in the screw head using a Dremel tool with a cutting wheel. This allows you to use a flat-head screwdriver to remove the screw. Be extremely careful when using a Dremel, and wear safety glasses to protect your eyes. If none of these methods work, you may need to consider drilling the screw head off completely. This will destroy the screw but should allow you to remove the door handle. Once the handle is off, you can try to grip the remaining screw shaft with pliers or locking pliers.

How do I ensure the new handle fits properly?

The most important step is to carefully measure your existing door handle and door preparation before purchasing a new one. Focus on the backset (distance from the door edge to the center of the handle bore hole), door thickness, and the bore hole diameter to guarantee compatibility. Cross-reference these measurements with the specifications provided by the new handle manufacturer.

When selecting a replacement, pay close attention to the backset. If the new handle’s backset doesn’t match, the latch won’t align with the strike plate on the door frame, preventing the door from closing and latching properly. Similarly, door thickness matters. Some handles are adjustable within a range, but if your door falls outside that range, the spindle (the part that connects the two handles through the door) might be too short or too long. This will impede the handle’s rotation and latch operation. Finally, inspect the bore hole diameter. If the new handle’s mounting plate is smaller than the existing bore hole, you’ll have unsightly gaps. If the plate is larger, you might need to enlarge the hole, which is a more complex process. If you’re uncertain about any of these measurements, consult with a hardware professional before making your purchase. Taking accurate measurements is the key to a successful door handle replacement.

How do I adjust the latch plate?

Adjusting the latch plate ensures the door latch properly engages with the strike plate on the door frame, preventing sticking or rattling. If the door doesn’t close smoothly or requires excessive force, the latch plate is likely misaligned and needs adjustment. The adjustment usually involves loosening the screws holding the plate, shifting its position slightly, and then re-tightening the screws. Sometimes, you may need to deepen or widen the strike plate opening.

To adjust the latch plate, start by closing the door and observing how the latch interacts with the strike plate. If the latch hits above or below the strike plate opening, loosen the screws securing the strike plate to the door frame. You don’t need to remove them completely, just enough to allow the plate to move. Gently nudge the plate up or down as needed, then tighten the screws to test the new position. Repeat until the latch smoothly enters the opening without catching. If the latch is hitting the edge of the opening, you may need to shift the entire plate left or right (or deepen or widen the opening, as described below). If the latch still doesn’t engage properly after shifting the strike plate, the problem might be the depth or width of the strike plate opening. If the latch is hitting the face of the strike plate, you may need to deepen the opening. You can do this with a chisel and hammer, carefully removing small amounts of wood. If the latch is binding on the sides of the opening, you might need to widen it, also using a chisel. After making any adjustments to the opening, test the door closure again, and continue adjusting until the latch operates smoothly. Be sure to re-tighten the screws securely when you’re satisfied with the alignment.

What’s the difference between passage, privacy, and entry handles?

Passage, privacy, and entry door handles serve different functions related to security and access. Passage handles are simple latches used for doors that don’t require locking, like closets or hallways. Privacy handles feature a locking mechanism, usually a push-button or twist-turn, intended for interior doors like bathrooms and bedrooms. Entry handles, on the other hand, are designed for exterior doors and require a keyed cylinder for security against unauthorized entry.

Passage handles offer basic door closure without any locking capability. They are frequently chosen for areas where accessibility is prioritized over privacy, such as connecting rooms or pantries. They consist of a latch that retracts when the handle is turned, allowing the door to open and close smoothly. Replacing a passage handle is usually the easiest task due to the simplicity of the mechanism. Privacy handles offer a degree of security within the home. The interior locking mechanism allows occupants to secure a room from the inside, providing temporary privacy. While they can be unlocked from the outside in emergencies, usually with a small tool inserted into a hole on the handle, they are not intended as primary security against intruders. Entry handles provide the highest level of security and are specifically designed for exterior doors. These handles feature a keyed cylinder that requires a key to unlock from the outside. The interior side may have a knob, lever, or thumb turn to lock and unlock the door. Replacing entry handles is often more involved, as it requires careful alignment and proper installation of the lock cylinder to ensure smooth and secure operation.

Should I lubricate anything during installation?

Yes, lubricating certain parts during door handle installation can significantly improve its longevity and ease of use. Applying a small amount of lubricant to the latch bolt, the spindle, and the strike plate will reduce friction, prevent sticking, and ensure smooth operation.

Applying lubricant during installation is especially important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps the latch bolt retract and extend smoothly, preventing it from binding against the strike plate. A sticky latch can make it difficult to close the door properly, leading to frustration and potential damage to the door frame over time. Secondly, lubricating the spindle, which connects the interior and exterior handle, allows the handles to rotate freely and without resistance. This smooth rotation reduces wear and tear on the handle mechanism, extending its lifespan. The best lubricant for door handle installation is typically a dry lubricant like graphite powder or a silicone-based spray. These types of lubricants won’t attract dust and grime like oil-based lubricants can, ensuring that the mechanism remains clean and operates smoothly for a longer period. Apply the lubricant sparingly, wiping away any excess to prevent it from dripping or staining the door. While not strictly necessary, a small amount of lubricant on the screws can also make installation easier, especially if you are working with older doors or hard wood. Just a dab on the screw threads will allow them to turn with less effort and prevent them from stripping.

And that’s all there is to it! Hopefully, you’re now the proud owner of a functioning (and stylish!) door handle. Thanks for following along, and don’t be a stranger – come back soon for more easy DIY tips and tricks to make your home a little bit brighter. Happy fixing!