Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Replace an
Exterior Door Handle
By Mark J. Donovan
If the exterior door handle on your
door is not working properly or is looking shabby then consider replacing it.
Replacing an exterior door handle is a straight forward DIY project that most
homeowners can tackle.
The first step in replacing an
exterior door handle is to remove the existing one. Start by opening the door
and looking for the screws that hold the door handle to the door. The screws
should be on the inside of the exterior door.
The screws may be visible or hidden
underneath the doorknob. If the screws are hidden underneath the doorknob, then
pop off the doorknob using a common screwdriver. To pop off the doorknob look
for a small slot on the doorknob handle. Place the end of your screwdriver into
this slot and twist gently. The doorknob should pop off and expose the screws
underneath that are holding the rest of the doorknob assembly to the exterior
door.
Use a screwdriver to remove the
screws that hold the door handle assembly in place. With the screws removed,
the front and back side of the door handle should be able to be detached
from the door.
Next, remove the screws that hold
the strike plate to the door.
With the strike plate screws
removed, you should be able to now remove the door handle latch assembly.
Now, measure the door handle
backset distance. The door handle backset distance is the distance from the
door edge to the center of the bore hole for the door knob handle. Record
this measurement and then visit your local home improvement center to find a
replacement exterior door handle.
Once you have your new replacement
door handle on the jobsite, first install the door handle latch and the strike
plate.
Photo by Mark Donovan
Next insert the replacement exterior
door handle into the bored door knob hole, so that the door handle post lines up
with the door handle latch assembly.
Fasten the replacement door handle
screws onto the door handle and you’re ready to test your new exterior door
handle.
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