How to Change a Door Handle: Step by Step

G’day mates! As someone who’s been swinging hammers and turning screwdrivers for over three decades, I’m here to tell you that changing a door handle is one of those little home improvement jobs that can make a huge difference. Whether you’re updating your home’s look or replacing a broken handle, this is definitely a DIY job you can tackle in under an hour. So let’s learn how to change a door handle.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive in, let’s round up our tools and materials:

• New door handle kit (this is the most important thing since we are changing a doorknob).
• Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Drill with appropriate bits (optional)
• Chisel (may be needed for adjustments)

Understanding Door Handle Types

We need to understand what sort of door handle or door knob we are working with. Some of the privacy sets can be complicated for someone people – but do not stress, as long as your privacy set comes with a key, it should be just as easy to change a door handle.

Door handles (or door knobs) generally come in two main types:

Passage sets are used for rooms that don’t require locking, like hallways or living rooms.

Privacy sets have a simple locking mechanism, ideal for bathrooms and bedrooms.

There are also entry sets for exterior doors with keyed locks, but we’ll focus on interior door handles today.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Door Handle

Step 1: Remove the Old Door Handle

First things first, we need to get rid of that old handle. Look along the edge of the door where the latch enters the frame. You’ll see a faceplate with screws. Remove these screws and gently pull the faceplate away from the door.

Next, look at the handle itself. On the inner face of the door (the side with the visible screws), you’ll see two screws holding the handle plates together. Unscrew these and the handle should come apart in two pieces.

If your handle is stubborn, don’t force it! Some handles have hidden release mechanisms – look for a small slot or button that you might need to press while pulling.

Step 2: Remove the Latch Mechanism

Once the handle is off, you’ll need to remove the latch mechanism. Simply pull it straight out from the edge of the door. If it’s stuck, a gentle wiggle should free it up. In this photo, as we are taking out the old door handle to change into the new door knob, just take your time to compare the older models to the new ones.

Step 3: Prepare the Door for the New Handle

Now’s your chance to check if any adjustments are needed:

1. Measure the backset (the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole) to ensure your new handle will fit.
2. Check if the hole in the door edge is the right size for your new latch. If it’s too small, you might need to chisel it slightly larger.
3. Check the hole diameter where the handle sits. Standard Australian door handles use a 54mm hole.

Step 4: Install the New Latch

Insert the new latch into the hole on the edge of the door. Make sure the curved side of the latch bolt faces the direction the door closes against the strike plate. This allows the door to close smoothly without catching.

Secure the latch by screwing the faceplate onto the edge of the door.

Step 5: Install and change the door handle

This is where door handle designs can vary, but the basic process is usually:

1. Separate the two sides of the handle.
2. Insert the outside handle (with the spindle attached) through the latch.
3. Place the inside handle over the spindle from the other side.
4. Line up the screw holes and insert the screws from the inside face of the door.
5. Tighten the screws until the handle is secure, but be careful not to overtighten and strip the threads.

Step 6: Test the door Handle

Before you consider the job done, give your new handle a thorough test:

1. Turn the handle to ensure the latch moves smoothly.
2. Open and close the door several times to check for any catching.
3. If it’s a privacy lock, test the locking mechanism.

Step 7: Adjust the Strike Plate (If Necessary)

If your door isn’t latching properly, you may need to adjust the strike plate on the door frame. This might involve:

1. Loosening the screws and repositioning the plate.
2. Chiseling the door frame slightly if the latch isn’t aligning.
3. Filing the strike plate opening if the latch is catching.

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem: The latch doesn’t align with the strike plate.

• Solution: Adjust the strike plate position or file the opening slightly larger.

Issue: The handle feels loose after installation.

• Solution: Check and tighten all screws, ensuring they’re properly aligned.

Problem: The door doesn’t close properly.

• Solution: Check that the latch bolt’s curved side faces the correct direction.

How to Change a Door Handle by Mitre 10.

Final Thoughts

Changing a door handle is a satisfying project that instantly refreshes a room. It’s one of those skills that’ll save you calling a tradie and have your mates impressed next time they pop round for a barbie.

Remember, the key to success is taking your time with the measurements and making sure everything aligns properly before final installation. If your door has unusual dimensions or specialized hardware, you might need to modify these steps slightly.

Got any door handle dramas or home improvement questions? Drop a comment below or check out my other guides on tradie-tips.com for more DIY know-how from a seasoned Aussie tradie!