Door knobs are an essential part of any home, but they can also be a nuisance when they need to be replaced. If you’re not careful, you can easily damage the door or the knob itself. That’s why it’s important to know how to remove an interior door knob without causing any damage.
In this article, we’ll show you how to remove an interior door knob using two different methods. The first method is for knobs that are attached with screws. The second method is for knobs that are attached with a spindle.
Once you’ve removed the knob, you can replace it with a new one. Be sure to choose a knob that is the right size and style for your door. You can also use this opportunity to clean the door and the knob hardware.
Tools and Materials Required
Before embarking on the task of removing an interior doorknob, it is imperative to gather the necessary tools and materials to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Here is a comprehensive list of what you will require:
Screwdriver
A screwdriver is indispensable for this task, as it allows you to loosen and remove the screws that secure the doorknob to the door. It is recommended to use a Phillips head screwdriver, as most doorknobs utilize this type of screw. If you encounter a doorknob with slotted screws, a flat head screwdriver will be necessary.
Hex Key (Allen Key)
Depending on the design of your doorknob, a hex key may be required to remove an internal set screw. This screw is often concealed beneath a small cap or button on the side of the doorknob. Inserting the hex key into the screw and turning it counterclockwise will release the knob.
Pliers
Pliers are a versatile tool that can be employed for various tasks related to doorknob removal. They can be used to grip and unscrew stubborn screws, as well as to pull out the doorknob’s latch assembly if necessary. It is advisable to use a pair of needle-nose pliers for greater precision and maneuverability in tight spaces.
| Tool | Usage |
|---|---|
| Phillips head screwdriver | Loosening and removing screws |
| Flat head screwdriver | Loosening and removing slotted screws |
| Hex key (Allen key) | Removing internal set screws |
| Needle-nose pliers | Gripping and unscrewing screws, pulling out latch assembly |
Remove the Escutcheon Plate
The escutcheon plate is the decorative cover that surrounds the doorknob. It is usually held in place by two screws. To remove the escutcheon plate, you will need a screwdriver.
Step 1: Locate the screws that are holding the escutcheon plate in place. They are usually located on the top and bottom of the plate.
Step 2: Use a screwdriver to remove the screws. Be careful not to strip the screws.
Step 3: Once the screws are removed, the escutcheon plate will come off easily.
Helpful Tips
- If the screws are rusted or painted over, you may need to use a penetrating oil to loosen them.
- If you are having trouble removing the screws, you can try using a pair of pliers.
- Once the escutcheon plate is removed, you will be able to see the inner workings of the doorknob.
Remove the Screws Holding the Knob
Once you have determined which side of the door the knob is locked from, identify the small screws that secure the knob to its latch assembly. Typically, these screws are located at the base of the knob, hidden by a small plate or cap.
Locating the Screws
To find the screws, first remove the decorative plate or cap by carefully prying it off with a flathead screwdriver or similar tool. Once the plate is removed, you should see one or two small screws beneath it. If the screws are Phillips head, you can use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove them. If the screws are hex head, you will need a hex key.
Table of Screw Types
| Screw Type | Tool Required |
|---|---|
| Phillips head | Phillips head screwdriver |
| Hex head | Hex key |
Removing the Screws
Once you have identified the screws and the appropriate tool, carefully unscrew them by turning them counterclockwise. Be patient and apply gentle pressure to avoid stripping the screws. If the screws are particularly tight, you may need to use a pair of pliers or a drill to loosen them.
Separate the Door Knobs
To separate the doorknobs, you’ll need to remove the screws that are holding them together. These screws are typically located on the inside of the doorknob, but they can also be found on the outside. Once you’ve found the screws, use a screwdriver to remove them. Be careful not to drop the screws, as they can be difficult to find if they fall.
Once the screws are removed, you can gently pull the doorknobs apart. If the doorknobs are stuck, you may need to use a little force. However, be careful not to damage the doorknobs or the door.
Here are some additional tips for separating the doorknobs:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a screwdriver that is the correct size for the screws. | This will help to prevent stripping the screws. |
| Be careful not to drop the screws. | If you drop the screws, they can be difficult to find. |
| If the doorknobs are stuck, you may need to use a little force. | However, be careful not to damage the doorknobs or the door. |
| If you are having trouble separating the doorknobs, you can consult a professional. | A professional can help you to remove the doorknobs safely and without damaging them. |
Remove the Lockset
When replacing a doorknob, you may need to remove the lockset as well. Here is how to do it:
1. Insert a key into the lock and turn it to the unlocked position.
2. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws that secure the faceplate of the lockset.
3. Pull the faceplate off the door.
4. Unscrew the two screws that secure the lockset to the door.
5. Pull the lockset out of the door.
Here are some additional tips for removing a lockset:
– If the lockset is old or rusty, you may need to use a penetrating lubricant to loosen the screws.
– If the screws are stripped, you may need to use a drill to remove them.
– Be careful not to damage the door when removing the lockset.
Unscrew the Latch Plate
Once you have access to the latch plate, use a screwdriver to remove the screws that secure it to the door. There will typically be two screws on the latch plate, one on each side. Be careful not to lose the screws, as you will need them to reattach the latch plate later.
After removing the screws, gently pull the latch plate away from the door. It may be necessary to wiggle the latch plate back and forth to loosen it. Once the latch plate is free, you will be able to remove the door knob.
To remove the door knob, grip the knob firmly and pull it straight towards you. The knob should slide off the spindle easily. If the knob is stuck, you may need to tap it gently with a hammer or use a penetrating oil to loosen it.
| Tools you will need | Description |
|---|---|
| Screwdriver | A screwdriver with a Phillips head or a flat head, depending on the type of screws used to secure the latch plate. |
| Penetrating oil | A penetrating oil can help to loosen a stuck door knob. |
| Hammer | A hammer can be used to tap a stuck door knob loose. |
Remove the Door Knob from the Edge of the Door
To remove the door knob from the edge of the door, you will need a screwdriver and a Phillips head bit. Follow these steps:
-
Remove the screws. Locate the two screws on the side of the door knob. Use the screwdriver to remove the screws.
-
Pull off the knob. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the knob straight off the door.
-
Remove the spindle. The spindle is the metal rod that connects the two knobs. Pull the spindle out of the door.
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Remove the latch. The latch is the metal piece that holds the door closed. Use the screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the latch in place.
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Pull out the latch. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the latch out of the door.
-
Clean the door knob and spindle. Use a damp cloth to clean the door knob and spindle.
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Reassemble the door knob. To reassemble the door knob, follow these steps in reverse order:
- Insert the latch into the door.
- Secure the latch with the screws.
- Insert the spindle into the door.
- Push the knob onto the spindle.
- Secure the knob with the screws.
Reinstall the Lockset
To reinstall the lockset, reverse the steps you took to remove it. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
1. Align the Latch
Insert the latch assembly back into the strike plate hole in the door jamb. Ensure that it is correctly aligned and latches securely when the door is closed.
2. Insert the Lockset
Carefully insert the lockset body into the hole in the door edge. Make sure the strike plate is inside the lockset body and the latch mechanism is properly engaged with the strike plate.
3. Secure the Screws
Secure the lockset to the door using the screws you removed earlier. Tighten them until the lockset is firmly in place and doesn’t wobble.
4. Install the Strike Plate
Reattach the strike plate to the door jamb. Align it correctly so that the latch engages smoothly when the door is closed. Secure the strike plate with screws.
5. Install the Door Knob
Slide the spindle through the lockset and door knob, aligning the square shaft with the hole in the knob. Turn the knob to ensure it operates smoothly.
6. Secure the Knob
Insert the setscrews into the holes on the side of the knob. Tighten them firmly to secure the knob to the spindle.
7. Install the Knob Plate
If your door has a door knob plate, slide it over the spindle and secure it with screws.
8. Check Operation and Adjustments
Test the door knob to ensure it operates smoothly and latches securely. If necessary, make slight adjustments to the strike plate, latch, or lockset body to improve the fit and function.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Screwdriver | To remove and tighten screws |
| Drill | To drill holes for the lockset if needed |
| Hammer | To tap the strike plate into position |
Reassemble the Door Knob
1. Insert the spindle through the door: Take the spindle and insert it through the hole in the door, lining it up with the holes in the doorknob and latch.
2. Screw on the doorknob: Thread the doorknob onto the spindle, making sure it is facing the correct direction. Tighten the doorknob screws using a screwdriver.
3. Install the latch: Take the latch and insert it into the hole in the door frame, aligning it with the spindle. Secure the latch using the screws provided.
4. Attach the strike plate: Locate the strike plate on the door frame and align it with the latch. Screw the strike plate firmly into place.
5. Test the doorknob: Check that the doorknob is properly installed by turning it back and forth. Make sure it opens and closes the door smoothly.
6. Lubricate the doorknob (optional): Apply a small amount of lubricant, such as graphite or WD-40, to the moving parts of the doorknob to prevent squeaking and ensure smooth operation.
7. tighten the screws: Use a screwdriver to tighten all the screws to ensure the doorknob is securely fastened.
8. **Reinstall the cover plate:** Place the cover plate over the doorknob assembly and align it with the mounting holes. Secure the cover plate using the screws provided.
9. Check alignment and function: Operate the doorknob to make sure it fits snugly against the door frame and engages properly with the strike plate. Adjust the position of the strike plate as needed to ensure a smooth latching action.
Tighten and Adjust the Knob
Over time, the doorknob may become loose and need to be tightened. To do this:
- Remove the screws that hold the knob in place.
- Pull off the knob.
- Tighten the screws that hold the knob in place.
- Unlock the door and test the knob to ensure it is secure.
Lubricating the Knob:
If the knob is still sticking or stiff, it may need to be lubricated. To lubricate the knob:
- Remove the screws that hold the knob in place.
- Pull off the knob.
- Apply a small amount of silicone lubricant or graphite powder to the inside of the knob.
- Reassemble the knob and test it to ensure it moves smoothly.
Replacing the Knob if Necessary:
In some cases, the knob may be too damaged to be repaired and will need to be replaced. To replace the knob:
- Remove the screws that hold the knob in place.
- Pull off the knob.
- Look for a replacement knob that matches the style and size of your current knob.
- Install the replacement knob by tightening the screws that hold it in place.
- Unlock the door and test the knob to ensure it is secure and functional.
How To Remove An Interior Door Knob
Removing an interior door knob is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with the right tools. Here are the steps on how to remove an interior door knob:
- Gather your tools. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver and a flat head screwdriver.
- Remove the screws from the faceplate. There will be two screws located on the faceplate of the doorknob. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws.
- Remove the faceplate. Once the screws are removed, the faceplate can be pulled off. Be careful not to lose the springs that are located behind the faceplate.
- Remove the doorknob. The doorknob can now be pulled off the spindle. If the doorknob is stuck, you can use the flat head screwdriver to pry it off.
- Remove the spindle. The spindle is the metal rod that connects the doorknob to the latch. To remove the spindle, use the flat head screwdriver to pry it out of the latch.
- Remove the latch. The latch is the metal piece that holds the door closed. To remove the latch, use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding it in place.
- Remove the door knob assembly. The door knob assembly consists of the doorknob, the spindle, and the latch. Once the latch is removed, the door knob assembly can be pulled out of the door.
People Also Ask
How do I remove a door knob without a screwdriver?
If you do not have a screwdriver, you can use a pair of pliers to remove the screws from the faceplate. To do this, grip the screw with the pliers and turn it counterclockwise.
How do I remove a door knob that is stuck?
If the doorknob is stuck, you can use the flat head screwdriver to pry it off. To do this, insert the flat head screwdriver into the space between the doorknob and the faceplate and pry the doorknob off.
How do I remove a door knob that has a rosette?
If the doorknob has a rosette, you will need to remove the rosette before you can remove the doorknob. To do this, use the flat head screwdriver to pry the rosette off of the door.
