How To Take Out a Door Handle: A Step-By-Step Guide
As a trusted hardware store with years of experience, we understand that knowing how to take out a door handle is an essential skill for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts alike. Whether you're updating your home's look, replacing a faulty mechanism, or preparing for a new installation, this guide will walk you through the process step by step. We'll cover various types of door handles, from traditional knobs to modern lever handles, and provide expert tips to make the task as smooth as possible.
By the end of this guide on “how do you take off a door handle,” you'll know exactly how to remove that door handle without breaking a sweat. Grab your tools, and let’s start—you’ve got this!
Understanding Door Handle Types
Before diving into how to take out a door handle, it's crucial to understand the different types of door handles you might encounter:
- Doorknobs: Traditional round knobs that rotate to operate the latch.
- Lever handles: Elongated handles that push down to open the door.
- Pull handles: Often found on sliding doors or as decorative elements.
Each type may have slight variations in the removal process, but the general principles remain the same.
Door Handle Mechanisms
- Knob Vs. Lever: First off, do you have a knob or a lever? Door knobs are round, and levers are straight. It’s a tiny detail but helpful to know, especially when deciding if you need a thin screwdriver to get the job done.
- Visible Vs. Hidden Screws: Here’s where the real difference comes in—are the screws visible or hidden? If you can see the screws, you're in for a quick job. If not, don’t worry; we’ll walk you through how to find them and whether you need a flathead screwdriver to pry off a cover or a small tool to loosen a hidden grub screw.
Tools You'll Need
To successfully take out a door handle, gather these tools:
- Allen Wrench: You’ll need this for screws inside the handle, especially if you’re dealing with a lever.
- Flathead Screwdriver: This is perfect for prying off any covers or plates hiding the screws.
- Paper Clip Or Thin Tool: For those hidden screws, something small like a paper clip will do the trick.
- Phillips-Head Screwdriver: This will handle the majority of screws you’ll come across.
Having these on hand will ensure you're prepared for any type of door handle you encounter.
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Take Out a Door Handle
1. Identify The Type Of Door Handle
Before you begin, determine whether you're dealing with a doorknob, lever handle, or pull handle. This will help you understand which parts to look for and how to approach the removal process.
2. Locate The Screws
The first step in how to take out a door handle is to find the screws holding it in place. These can be:
- Visible screws on the cover plate or rose
- Hidden screws underneath a decorative plate
- A small hole on the side of the handle (for a grub screw)
For visible screws, simply unscrew them with the appropriate screwdriver. If you can't see any screws, look for a small slot or notch around the base of the handle. If you’re wondering how do you take off a door handle with hidden screws, use your Allen wrench or a paper clip to press into the hole and release it. You’re on your way.
3. Remove The Cover Plate
If your door handle has a decorative cover plate, you'll need to remove this first. Look for a small notch or slot around the edge of the plate. Insert a thin flathead screwdriver or a similar tool into this slot and gently pry the plate off. This will expose the screws underneath.
4. Unscrew The Handle
Now, it's time to unscrew the handle. If you’ve got visible screws, use your screwdriver to unscrew them. If you’re working with hidden screws, gently insert your Allen wrench into the screw head inside the handle and turn. Make sure you’re working on the inner side of the door, where the shaft of the handle connects. Just take it slow—there’s no rush here.
Once the screws are loose, you can start pulling off the handle. If it’s not budging right away, don’t force it. Instead, try to push gently while you pull. It might be stuck due to the lock mechanism if it still doesn't come off. We’ll get to that next.
5. Deal With Hidden Mechanisms
Some door handles, especially in period properties or more modern designs, may have hidden mechanisms. Here's how to take out a door handle with less obvious fasteners:
- Look for a small hole on the side of the handle base
- Insert a thin tool (like an Allen wrench or paper clip) into this hole
- Press firmly while pulling on the handle to release the locking mechanism
6. Remove The Spindle & Latch
After removing the handle, you'll see the spindle (the bar that goes through the door) and the latch mechanism. To complete the process of how to take out a door handle:
- Pull out the spindle from the latch assembly
- Unscrew the latch plate on the edge of the door
- Slide the latch mechanism out of the door
7. Take Out The Strike Plate
While not strictly part of the door handle, you may also want to remove the strike plate from the door jamb. This is typically held in place by two small screws and can be easily unscrewed and removed.
Common Challenges & Solutions
Even when you know the process you may still encounter some challenges that can get you reaching out for help on “how do you take off a door handle”. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
Stuck Or Painted-Over Screws
If screws are stuck or painted over, try these solutions:
- Use a sharp utility knife to score around the screw head
- Apply a penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes
- Use a manual impact driver for stubborn screws
Corroded Or Broken Mechanisms
Older door handles may have corroded or broken internal parts. In these cases, you might need to use pliers to grip and remove stuck components. Be gentle to avoid damaging the door.
Misaligned Or Warped Doors
Sometimes, the difficulty in removing a door handle stems from a misaligned or warped door. Ensure the door is fully open and supported to relieve any pressure on the handle mechanism.
Stripped Screw
If you’re dealing with a screw that’s been stripped, it can feel like a real pain. But don’t give up yet! Try using a flathead screwdriver for a better grip or even a rubber band over the screw head to give you more traction.
Preparing For a New Installation
Now that you know how to take out a door handle, you're ready to prepare for a new installation. Here are some tips:
- Clean the door surface and existing holes thoroughly
- Check if the new handle will cover the existing holes. If not, you may need to fill and paint them
- Ensure the new latch mechanism is the correct size for your door's thickness
- Consider updating the strike plate for a perfect fit with your new handle
When To Call a Professional
While knowing how to take out a door handle is a valuable skill, there are times when it's best to call a professional. For example:
- If you're dealing with an antique or valuable period door
- When the door or frame is significantly damaged
- If you encounter complex security systems integrated with the handle
- When working with fire-rated doors that require specific hardware
Mastering How To Take Out a Door Handle
Learning how to take out a door handle is a useful skill that can save you time and money on simple home improvements. By following this guide, you'll be able to tackle most standard door handle removals with confidence. Remember to work carefully, keep track of all components, and don't force anything if it doesn't move easily.
Whether you're replacing old, worn out door knobs, upgrading to modern lever handles, or simply refreshing your home's look, the ability to remove a door handle is the first step in transforming your living space. And remember, our hardware store is always here to provide you with the tools, materials, and advice you need to complete your project successfully!
Now that you're equipped with the knowledge of how do you take off a door handle, why not take a look at our wide selection of stylish and functional door hardware? We have high-quality products made in Italy and contemporary styles—everything you need to give your doors a fresh new look. Happy DIY-ing!
FAQs
What tools do I need to take out a door handle?
To take out a door handle, you'll typically need a flathead screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver, and possibly a thin screwdriver or Allen wrench. For some handles, you might also need a paper clip or small tool to access hidden screws.
How do you take off a door handle with no visible screws?
If there are no exposed screws, look for a small slot or hole on the side of the door knob. Insert a thin screwdriver or Allen wrench into this hole and press while gently pulling on the knob to release the latching mechanism.
How do you take off a door handle without removing the door from its frame?
In most cases, you can take out a door handle while the door is still installed in the door frame. Keep the door open and stable during the process for easier access.
How do I remove the latch bolt after taking out the door handle?
After removing the handle, unscrew the faceplate on the edge of the door. The latch bolt and its mechanism should then slide out easily from the door.
What should I do if the screws are painted over?
Use a flat head screwdriver to carefully scrape away the paint from the screw head. If needed, score around the screw with a utility knife before attempting to unscrew it.
How to take out an old door handle on a period property?
Be extra careful with older handles, as they may be more delicate. Look for hidden set screws or decorative caps that might be concealing screws. Gently pull and twist components, and avoid using excessive force.
Is the process different for taking out a door lock versus a regular handle?
The process is similar, but door locks may have additional components like a key cylinder that needs to be removed separately. Always ensure the door is unlocked before starting.
How do I know if I need new handles or if I can reinstall the old ones?
Inspect the old handles for wear, damage, or outdated style. If they're in good condition and you're happy with their appearance, you can usually reinstall them. Otherwise, consider upgrading to new door handles.
What should I do if the screw heads are stripped?
Try using a rubber band between the screwdriver and the stripped screw head for better grip. If that doesn't work, you may need to use a screw extractor tool or drill out the screw.
How long does it typically take to take off a door handle?
For someone familiar with how to take out a door handle, the process usually takes about 10-15 minutes. It may take longer for more complex handles or if you encounter any issues.
How do you take off a door handle if the door is locked and I don't have the key?
It's generally not recommended to remove a locked door handle without the key, as this could damage the lock mechanism. If you're locked out, it's best to contact a professional locksmith.
After taking out the old handle, how do I prepare for installing new handles?
Clean the door surface, ensure all old screws and hardware are removed, and check that the existing holes align with your new handles. You may need to fill old holes or drill new ones depending on the new handle's design.