6 Easy Steps on How to Put a Door Handle Back On

Image of door handle being put back on

Home maintenance can be daunting, especially when it comes to fixing broken door handles. But fear not! Replacing a door handle is a relatively simple task that can be accomplished with just a few tools. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a complete novice, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring a secure and functional door handle in no time.

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To begin, gather your supplies. You’ll need a screwdriver (either a Phillips-head or flat-head, depending on the type of screws used), a new door handle, and optionally, a drill (for drilling new holes if necessary). Once you have everything you need, follow the instructions carefully. Start by removing the old door handle. Unscrew the screws that secure the handle to the door and detach it. If the screws are stripped or difficult to remove, use a drill to create new holes.

Now, it’s time to install the new door handle. Align the handle with the holes on the door and insert the screws. Tighten the screws securely using a screwdriver. Double-check the handle to ensure it is securely attached and operates smoothly. If there’s any wobbling or looseness, adjust the screws accordingly. And that’s it! You’ve successfully replaced your door handle, restoring functionality and adding a touch of style to your home.

Locate the Mounting Hardware

Determine the Type of Doorknob

Identify the type of doorknob you have, as different types require different mounting hardware. Common types include:

Passage doorknobs: Used on interior doors that do not need to be locked.
Privacy doorknobs: Used on bathroom or bedroom doors that require privacy, often with a locking mechanism.
Entrance doorknobs: Used on exterior doors and feature a deadbolt or other locking mechanism.

Inspect the Door

Examine the door for any exposed mounting hardware. Check the edges, sides, and face of the door for screws, bolts, or other fasteners. Make sure the hardware is not damaged or missing, as this could affect the stability of the doorknob when installed.

Check the Door Jamb

Look at the door jamb (the frame around the door) for any protruding mounting hardware. This might include a latch plate, strike plate, or backset holes. The backset is the distance between the edge of the door and the center of the doorknob hole. Determine the backset by measuring from the edge of the door to the center of the existing hole.

Doorknob Type	Backset (typically)
Passage/Privacy	2 3/8″ or 2 3/4″
Entrance	2 3/8″ or 2 3/4″ or 5″

Clean the Mounting Surface

Preparing the mounting surface is crucial for a secure and long-lasting door handle installation. Follow these steps to ensure a clean surface:

Remove Dirt and Debris

Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away any visible dirt, dust, or debris from the mounting surface. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage the door finish.
Clean with Isopropyl Alcohol (Optional)

For a more thorough cleaning, dampen a clean cloth or cotton ball with isopropyl alcohol. Wipe the mounting surface to remove any lingering grease, oil, or residue. Allow the area to dry completely before proceeding.
Use a Tack Cloth (Recommended)

A tack cloth is a specialized cleaning tool designed to remove fine dust and particles. Gently wipe the mounting surface with a tack cloth to ensure a clean and dust-free surface.

Insert the Screws into the Doorknob

Start by inserting the first screw into the top hole on the doorknob. Turn the screw clockwise until it is snug.

Insert the second screw into the bottom hole on the doorknob. Tighten the screw until it is snug.

Tighten both screws firmly using a screwdriver. Ensure you don’t overtighten the screws, as this may damage the doorknob or the screws themselves.

For a more detailed guide on inserting the screws:

Step	Description
1	Align the doorknob with the spindle and hold it in place.
2	Insert the screws into the holes on the doorknob.
3	Tighten the screws by turning them clockwise using a screwdriver. Ensure to tighten them securely but be careful not to overtighten.

Tighten the Screws and Secure the Doorknob

1. Take the doorknob in your dominant hand and align it with the spindle that protrudes from the door. Ensure that the keyhole or thumb turn is facing the proper direction.

2. Slide the doorknob onto the spindle until it fits snugly against the door. If there is any resistance, gently tap the sides of the doorknob with a mallet or hammer to encourage it into place.

3. Retrieve the screws that came with the doorknob and insert them into the holes on the base of the knob. Tighten the screws using a screwdriver, ensuring that they are snug but not overtightened.

4. Position the doorknob cover or escutcheon over the base of the doorknob. Align the screw holes on the cover with those on the doorknob base.

5. Insert the screws into the holes on the cover and tighten them securely with a screwdriver. Ensure that the cover is flush against the door and that there are no gaps or wobbles. If the doorknob is loose or does not operate smoothly, recheck the tightness of the screws and adjust as necessary.

Troubleshooting	Solution
Doorknob is loose after tightening screws	Retighten screws or apply thread locker
Doorknob does not turn smoothly	Check alignment of doorknob and spindle; adjust screws if necessary
Doorknob cover does not fit securely	Ensure screws are properly aligned and tightened

Replace the Latch Cover

With the latch mechanism secured, you can now replace the latch cover. The cover typically slides or snaps into place over the latch mechanism and may be held in place by screws or a spring-loaded latch.

Steps for Replacing the Latch Cover:

Locate the latch cover and ensure that it faces the correct direction.
Slide or snap the cover into place over the latch mechanism.
If necessary, secure the cover with screws or by engaging the spring-loaded latch.
Test the latch to ensure that it functions properly and securely engages with the door frame.
Repeat for the other side of the handle (if required).
Inspect the entire handle assembly to ensure that all components are properly aligned and secured.

Additional Tips
Use a flashlight to illuminate the latch area if necessary.
Handle the latch cover with care to avoid scratching the surface.
If the cover does not fit properly, check for any obstructions or misalignment and adjust accordingly.
Avoid overtightening the screws, as this may damage the latch cover or mechanism.

Reinstall the Door Handle

Once you have removed the door handle, it is time to reinstall it. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Clean the Latch Hole

Before reinstalling the door handle, it is important to clean the latch hole. This will help remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated. You can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the hole.

2. Apply Lubricant

Next, apply a small amount of lubricant to the latch mechanism. This will help the latch move smoothly and prevent it from sticking.

3. Align the Door Handle

Align the door handle with the latch hole. Make sure that the handle is facing the correct direction.

4. Insert the Handle Screws

Insert the handle screws into the holes in the door handle. Tighten the screws until the handle is securely in place.

5. Tighten the Knob

If the door handle has a knob, tighten the knob by turning it clockwise. Make sure that the knob is tight enough to operate smoothly, but not so tight that it is difficult to turn.

6. Test the Door Handle

Once the door handle is installed, test it to make sure that it is working properly. Open and close the door several times to ensure that the handle operates smoothly and that the latch engages properly.

7. Inspect the Door Handle Regularly

As a homeowner, it’s important to inspect your door handles regularly. This will allow you to identify potential problems and contact hardware professionals before they become major issues. Regular inspections can help you identify problems with loose screws, damaged parts, and other issues.

Inspection Area	Signs of Potential Problems
Handle Screws	Loose screws can indicate a problem with the security of the door latch
Handle Mechanism	A sticky or difficult-to-turn handle can indicate a problem with the latch mechanism
Finish or Coating	Peeling or damaged finish can indicate exposure to moisture or other elements
Other Signs	Rattling or unusual sounds when operating the handle

Test the Door Handle Operation

Once the door handle is in place, it’s important to test it to ensure it operates smoothly. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Open and Close the Door

Try opening and closing the door several times. Make sure the handle moves freely and engages the latch properly. If the handle feels stiff or doesn’t operate smoothly, there may be an issue with the latch or the handle itself.

Step 2: Check the Alignment

Inspect the alignment of the door handle. The handle should be positioned in the center of the door and should not be rubbing against the door frame. If the handle is misaligned, it could cause premature wear and tear.

Step 3: Tighten the Screws

If the handle is loose, tighten the screws that hold it in place. Use a screwdriver to gently tighten the screws, but be careful not to overtighten them. Overtightening the screws can damage the handle or the door.

Step 4: Test the Latch

With the door closed, try to engage the latch by pressing on the door handle. The latch should engage securely and hold the door in place. If the latch doesn’t engage properly, there may be a problem with the latch mechanism or the handle itself.

Step 5: Check for Wobble

Grasp the door handle and try to move it back and forth or up and down. There should be no noticeable wobble or play in the handle. If the handle wobbles, it may indicate loose screws or a faulty handle mechanism.

Step 6: Listen for Noises

When operating the door handle, listen for any unusual noises. Creaking or grinding noises could indicate problems with the handle mechanism or the latch. If you hear any noises, it’s best to inspect the handle and latch for damage or wear.

Step 7: Lubricate the Handle (Optional)

If the door handle is not moving smoothly, you can try lubricating it with a light lubricant such as WD-40. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts of the handle and work it in with a rag. Wipe off any excess lubricant to prevent it from attracting dirt and debris.

Step 8: Inspect the Door Handle Periodically

To ensure the longevity of your door handle, it’s a good idea to inspect it periodically for any signs of wear or damage. Check for loose screws, misalignment, or any unusual noises. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage or malfunction.

Test	Description
Open and Close the Door	Ensures smooth operation and proper latch engagement.
Check the Alignment	Prevents premature wear and ensures proper functionality.
Tighten the Screws	Secures the handle and prevents wobbliness.
Test the Latch	Verifies proper latching and door security.
Check for Wobble	Indicates loose screws or faulty handle mechanism.
Listen for Noises	Alerts to potential problems with the handle or latch.
Lubricate the Handle (Optional)	Enhances smooth operation and reduces wear.
Inspect the Door Handle Periodically	Prevents future problems and ensures longevity.

Troubleshooting Tips for Reattaching Door Handles

Reattaching a door handle is generally a straightforward task, but occasional hiccups can arise. Here are some tips to help you troubleshoot and resolve common issues:

1. Check for Hidden Screws

Some door handles have concealed screws that are not immediately visible. Look for small holes or gaps around the handle’s base or trim plate.

2. Tighten the Screws

If the door handle is loose or rattling, check if the screws are fully tightened. Use a screwdriver to gently snug them up.

3. Replace the Screws

If the screws are stripped or damaged, replace them with new ones. Use screws of the same size and type as the originals.

4. Check the Latch

Ensure that the door latch is functioning properly. A faulty latch can prevent the door handle from engaging correctly.

5. Adjust the Strike Plate

The strike plate is the metal plate on the door frame that the latch engages with. If the latch is not catching properly, adjust the strike plate slightly.

6. Lubricate the Parts

Apply a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts of the door handle, such as the latch and spindle. This can reduce friction and improve operation.

7. Check for Obstructions

If the door handle is difficult to move, check for any obstructions or debris that may be interfering with its movement.

8. Handle Compatibility

Ensure that the door handle you are installing is compatible with the type of door you have. Different types of doors (e.g., wooden, metal, hollow core) may require specific handles.

9. Diagnose Electrical Issues

If your door handle is electronic, such as a keyless entry system, troubleshooting electrical issues can be more complex. Check the following:

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
No power	Dead batteries or faulty wiring	Replace batteries or check wiring connections
Intermittent operation	Loose connections or sensor malfunction	Tighten connections or replace the sensor
Key fob not recognized	Damaged key fob or weak signal	Replace the key fob or check for signal interference

Step 10: Inspect and Realign the Latch Assembly

Carefully inspect the latch assembly for any damage or misalignment. If the latch is bent or damaged, it may need to be replaced. If the latch is simply misaligned, you can gently adjust it by hand to ensure it fits snugly into the strike plate.

To check the latch alignment, close the door and observe the gap between the door and the frame. The latch should extend enough to engage with the strike plate but not so far that it prevents the door from closing smoothly. If the gap is too wide, adjust the latch outward by tightening the screws that hold it in place. If the gap is too narrow, adjust the latch inward by loosening the screws.

Once the latch assembly is properly aligned, tighten all the screws securely to ensure a solid connection.

Seek Professional Assistance if Needed

If you encounter any difficulties during the process of putting a door handle back on, do not hesitate to seek professional assistance from a locksmith or handyman. They have the necessary skills and experience to safely and effectively handle the repair, ensuring the proper functioning and security of your door.

How To Put A Door Handle Back On

If your door handle has come loose, it’s a relatively easy fix to put it back on yourself. Here’s how to do it:

Remove the screws that are holding the handle in place. There are usually two screws, one on each side of the handle.

Pull the handle off of the door.

Apply a small amount of lubricant to the spindle of the handle. This will help to prevent the handle from squeaking or sticking.

Insert the spindle of the handle into the hole in the door.

Screw the handle back into place.

Tighten the screws until the handle is secure.