The click of a door handle is one of those satisfying little sounds and sensations that you likely never think twice about – until it stops working properly. A worn-out or broken door handle can be frustrating and prevent you from easily opening your door. Replacing a door handle is an easy DIY project that can be accomplished in less than an hour with some basic tools and materials.
With a few simple steps, you can restore full function to your door and customize the look with unique handles and hardware.
An Essential Repair Brings Back Function and Style
Doors are an essential part of any home, providing privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal. Over time, the handles and latching mechanisms endure constant use, weathering, and stress that can cause them to loosen or break. Rather than living with a stubborn door that sticks or doesn’t latch properly, replacing the handle is the ideal solution.
This repair brings back the full functionality of your door, allowing it to open, close, lock and unlock smoothly. A new handle can also drastically change the look and feel of a door’s appearance with updated materials and designs. From classic levers to modern bars, the options for style customization are nearly endless.
While a professional can replace door handles, with some basic mechanical skills and tools, DIYers can tackle this project themselves. The process involves carefully removing the old handle, installing new latching components if needed, creating proper alignment, and securely attaching the new handleset. Understanding the anatomy of a door’s hardware and following key steps will lead to an easy, successful handle replacement.
The Components of Door Handles and Locks
Before replacing a handle, it helps to understand the basic components and mechanisms that allow a door to function properly. While terminologies and specifics may vary between knob, lever, and bar-style handles, they contain similar essential parts.
The exterior handle and interior knob/lever are connected by a spindle that runs through the door and connects to the latch assembly. The latch includes the tongue that extends from the door frame to close against the strike plate. This is the essential mechanism that allows locking and securing of the door.
Additional components like cylinder locks, handle screws and roses, faceplates, and installation hardware all play a role in the door handle function and installation. Understanding these pieces will help during the replacement process.
A Variety of Styles to Match Any Decor
Beyond the standard rounded knob style, door handles come in a diverse range of shapes and configurations. The most common types include:
- Lever handles – The most widely used style, lever handles have an elongated grip that makes them easy to open. Single lever, curved, angular, and gooseneck styles add unique shapes.
- Bar handles – As the name implies, these offer a straight horizontal or vertical bar grip shape for a contemporary, minimalist look.
- Knob handles – Classic and ornate, knob handles have a rounded grip and pedigree design. Decorative detailing, materials, and polished or antiqued finishes provide an upscale style.
- Pull handles – Resembling cabinet pulls, these handles have a ridged grip that extends straight out from the door. They allow for recessed installation and modern appeal.
- Arch and custom handles – For unique doors and entrances, artisan handles in arched, curved, or custom shapes add drama and sophistication.
The style you choose for a replacement handle can match existing décor or reinvigorate the look of your space with updated materials and finishes.
Gather Tools and Materials for an Easy Door Handle Replacement
Replacing a door handle requires just a few basic tools and some key materials:
Tools needed:
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Drill with assorted drill bits
- Utility knife
- Sandpaper
- Hammer
- Pliers
- Chisel
Materials:
- New interior and exterior door handles and hardware
- Wood shims and wood putty
- Paper template
- Rags
- Painter’s tape
Some additional specialized tools like a door handle template jig, spindle extractor tool, or mortise gauge can be handy but are not essential. Having these tools and supplies on hand will allow you to remove old hardware and install new handles smoothly.
Safety Tips for Removing Handles and Working on Doors
When taking on any home repair project, safety should come first. Follow these precautions during a door handle replacement:
- Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris.
- Use work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges on old handles.
- Clamp components when cutting or drilling to keep materials steady.
- Carefully sweep or vacuum around the door when finished to clean up stray screws, metal shavings, or pieces of the old handle.
- Dispose of old handles and components properly to avoid injury.
- Make sure new hardware components are the appropriate size for your door thickness.
- Allow the paint stripper or finish remover to dry fully before handling the door with bare hands.
- Keep fingers clear when using hammers, chisels, screwdrivers, and other tools.
Exercising caution will allow you to replace your handle safely and avoid any accidents or injuries.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Door Handles
Once you have gathered the necessary tools and materials, follow these key steps to successfully replace your door handles:
Remove the Existing Door Handle
Begin by removing any visible screws from the interior knob/lever and exterior handle using a Phillips or flathead screwdriver. The posts should then pull away, allowing you to remove both sides of the handle from the door.
For handles with concealed fixings, gently pry off any cover plates or collars to access hidden screw holes. You may need to use a utility knife or a thin putty knife to remove stuck plates. With the screws exposed, the pulls can be detached completely.
If knobs or handles won’t detach from the spindle, use a handle removal tool or small pry bar to carefully pop them off. Avoid damaging the door in the process.
Extract Latch Assembly and Strike Plate
With the knob/lever removed, access the two halves of the latch bolt assembly installed inside the door frame. Remove any screws or posts to detach the latch components. You may need to chisel out old, stuck assemblies.
Use a screwdriver to remove the strike plate on the door jamb as well. Try not to damage the wood around the strike hole.
Measure and Install New Latch Assembly
Refer to the product specifications of your new door handle to determine the proper sizing of the latch bolt assembly. Measure and mark the correct placement vertically on the door edge.
Use a chisel, utility knife, or drill to mortise out a pocket for the latch assembly components. Test the depth and make adjustments as needed for the assembly to sit flush with the door edge. Apply wood glue and insert the new latch halves, securing them with screws.
On the door jamb, install the aligned strike plate, drilling pilot holes if needed. Make sure the tongue will align with the socket of the new latch.
Align and Attach the Replacement Handles
Insert the new spindle through the door, fed through the centered latch assembly. Add interior and exterior handle components to the ends of the spindle, ensuring proper orientation.
If handles have concealed fixings, tighten mounting screws into the pre-drilled holes. For surface-mounted handles, position screws through the faceplate into the door.
Check alignment on both sides and make any adjustments needed to handles, strike plate, or latch assembly so the door operates smoothly.
Test Operation and Troubleshoot Any Issues
Once fully assembled, test opening and closing the door and locking the latch. The handle should turn easily from both sides with the latch extending and retracting correctly.
If the handle sticks or doesn’t turn properly, you may need to recess the strike plate further or widen the mortise pocket for the latch assembly. Adjust as needed until the operation is smooth.
Add any finishing plates or collars to conceal interior fixings. Consider painting or sealing handles if desired to protect and unify the finish. Proper functioning handle hardware will keep your door operating like new for years to come.
Personalize with Unique Handles, Plates, and Finishes
Beyond the standard satin nickel or bronze handle sets found at most hardware stores, specialized vendors offer truly unique, custom door hardware. Here are some ways to add personal flair with your handle replacement:
Color match handles – For a cohesive look, choose handles in a shade matches to the exact door color. This allows the hardware to blend in discreetly.
Pick unique materials – Look for handles made from glass, crystal, stone, leather, or ceramic for an upscale, artistic accent.
Add personal names or numbers – Some companies can customize handles with engraved names, meaningful dates, or house numbers for a personalized touch.
Play with proportions – An oversized handle can make a dramatic statement on an otherwise understated door.
Coordinating metals – Mixing metal finishes, like brass knobs with chrome bars, can create appealing contrast.
Consider vintage appeal – Antique-style handles in copper, bronze, or pewter nod to historical charm.
Try custom shapes – For contemporary doors, choose artistic handles in abstract shapes and profiles.
Highlight artwork – Handles incorporating stained glass, mosaic tiles, or sculpted details become artful focal points.
The choices are nearly endless for putting your own creative stamp on ordinary door hardware. Seek out providers specializing in custom, handcrafted pieces for one-of-a-kind style.
Maintaining Handles for Years of Smooth Operation
Proper door handle maintenance helps ensure your hardware lasts securely for years beyond the initial installation. Follow these tips:
- Tighten any loose screws on handles, plates, and strike plates as needed over time.
- Lubricate moving parts with powdered graphite or spray lubricant to prevent sticking.
- Wipe handles clean regularly with a soft, damp cloth to prevent buildup of dirt, grease, and grime.
- Use gentle cleaners and polishes to protect metals finishes from tarnishing and abrasion. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Watch for signs of loose handle movement, latch sticking, and strike plate indentation as cues to replace worn parts.
- Consider protective handle wraps or guards to prevent exterior hardware from weathering.
- Replace batteries promptly in electronic smart locks to avoid electronic failures.
With routine inspection and care, your handles will continue opening, closing, locking, and unlocking your doors smoothly 365 days a year.
Restore Your Door Function with A Successful Handle Replacement
Worn out, broken, or outdated door handles not only look unsightly but prevent doors from operating as they should. Replacing door handles restores full function so doors open and latch properly again, bringing back security, privacy, and peace of mind.
With a handle style that matches your home’s decoration and the necessary tools and materials, this is an easy DIY project. Following the step-by-step process to safely remove old hardware and install updated handles allows you to complete this repair successfully.
Personalize the look with unique finishes, engravings, and custom designs for handles that make an artistic statement. Properly maintaining your new handles means your door will operate smoothly for decades to come.
The click of a newly replaced handle signals your door is back in proper working order, keeping your home secure while looking as stylish as the day it was installed.
