Unlock the Secret How to Remove Old Door Knobs

how do you remove old door knobs

How Do You Remove Old Door Knobs?

Replacing old door knobs is a common home improvement project that can refresh the look of your home. Removing the old knobs can be a simple process, but it requires the right tools and technique. You’ll need a screwdriver, pliers, and possibly a hammer or mallet.

First, identify the type of knob you have. Some knobs have a set screw that you can loosen with a screwdriver. Others have a release button that you can press to detach the knob. Once you’ve removed the knob, you can then unscrew the mounting plate from the door. If the screws are stubborn, you can use pliers to grip them and loosen them.

remove old door knobs in 60 seconds

Remove Old Door Knobs in 60 Seconds!

Replacing old door knobs can instantly upgrade the look and feel of your home. But before you can install your new hardware, you need to know how to remove the old ones. This process may seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple. With the right tools and a few basic steps, you can easily tackle this DIY project.

Gathering Your Tools

The first step is to gather your tools. You’ll need a few basic items:

  • Screwdriver: Choose a screwdriver that matches the size and type of screws holding your door knob in place. You might need a Phillips head, slotted head, or a combination set.
  • Pliers: A pair of pliers can be helpful if you’re dealing with stubborn screws or if you need to grip the door knob itself.
  • Hammer: A hammer can be used to gently tap on the screwdriver if you need a bit of extra leverage.
  • Optional: A Door Knob Removal Tool: If your door knob has a set screw that’s hard to reach or if you can’t find the right screwdriver, you might find a specialized door knob removal tool helpful.

Identifying the Door Knob Type

Before you start removing your door knob, it’s important to identify what type of knob you have. This will help you determine the best method for removal. There are two main types of door knobs:

  • Traditional Door Knobs: These have a single screw that holds the knob in place. This screw is typically located on the edge of the knob, either on the side or the bottom.
  • Lever-Style Handles: These have a single screw located on the inside of the handle. The screw is hidden beneath a cover plate or a small decorative piece.

How to Remove Old Door Knobs

Now, let’s break down the steps for removing both types of door knobs:

Removing Traditional Door Knobs

  1. Locate the Set Screw: Start by finding the set screw that holds the knob in place. Look for a small screw on the edge of the knob.
  2. Loosen the Set Screw: Use your screwdriver to loosen the set screw. You may need to turn it counterclockwise.
  3. Remove the Knob: Once the set screw is loose, gently pull the knob off the door. You may need to use your pliers to grip the knob firmly.
  4. Remove the Rose: The rose is the decorative plate that surrounds the knob. If your door knob has a rose, simply pull it off. It may be held in place by a small clip.
  5. Remove the Interior Plate and Spindle: The interior plate is located on the inside of the door. Remove the screws that hold it in place, and then pull the plate off. You’ll also find the spindle, which connects the knob to the latch, attached to the plate.

Removing Lever-Style Handles

  1. Find the Set Screw: The set screw for a lever-style handle is located on the inside of the handle. Look for a small cover plate or a decorative piece that you can remove.
  2. Remove the Cover Plate: Use a screwdriver to remove the cover plate or decorative piece.
  3. Loosen the Set Screw: Use your screwdriver to loosen the set screw.
  4. Remove the Handle: Once the set screw is loose, gently pull the handle off the door.
  5. Remove the Interior Plate: The interior plate is usually secured by a few screws. Remove them and then pull off the plate. The spindle will be attached to the plate.

Replacing Your Door Knobs

Once you’ve removed the old door knobs, you’re ready to install your new ones. Follow the instructions provided with your new hardware to install them properly.

Tips for Removing Stubborn Door Knobs

If you’re having trouble removing your door knobs, try these tips:

  • Use a lubricant: If the set screw is stuck, try spraying it with a lubricant, like WD-40. Let the lubricant sit for a few minutes, then try loosening the screw again.
  • Apply heat: If the set screw is still stuck, you can try applying heat to it. Use a heat gun or a hairdryer to warm the screw. This can help loosen the metal.
  • Use a door knob removal tool: If all else fails, you can purchase a door knob removal tool. These tools are designed to remove stubborn door knobs that have rusted or stripped set screws.

Additional Tips for Success

  • Double-check your tools: Before you begin, make sure you have the correct screwdriver and any other tools you’ll need.
  • Be patient: Removing old door knobs can sometimes be a little tricky. Don’t get discouraged if you have to try a few different methods.
  • Take your time: Working slowly and carefully will help prevent damage to your door or your door knob.

Searching For More Information

If you’re still having trouble removing your door knobs, you can always search for more information online. Here are some search terms you can use:

  • How do you remove old door knobs
  • How to remove a door knob with a stripped screw
  • How to remove a door knob without a set screw
  • How to remove a door knob with a broken set screw
  • How to remove a door knob from a locked door
  • How to remove a door knob from a door with no screws
  • How to remove a door knob from a door with a broken spindle
  • How to remove a door knob from a door with a jammed latch
  • How to remove a door knob from a door with a stuck handle
  • How to remove a door knob from a door with a loose knob

By following these steps and using the right tools, you’ll be able to remove old door knobs in no time!

stuck with an old doorknob we have the trick

Stuck with an old doorknob?  We have the trick!

Sometimes, you just need a quick fix. Maybe your old door knobs are looking a little worse for wear, or you just want to upgrade to something new. Whatever the reason, you don’t want to spend hours wrestling with stubborn hardware. So how can you remove old door knobs in 60 seconds? It’s actually easier than you think!

The Tools You Need

Before you start, gather your tools:

  • A screwdriver – A standard Phillips head screwdriver is usually all you need.
  • A flathead screwdriver – This is helpful for prying off the escutcheon plate, if necessary.
  • A small hammer – This is optional, but can come in handy for stubborn screws.
  • A bucket or trash bag – You’ll want to have somewhere to put the old hardware.

Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s get this done:

  1. Find the screws. Look for the screws on the face of the door knob or under the escutcheon plate. If the screws are hidden, you may need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry off the escutcheon plate.
  2. Remove the screws. Use your Phillips head screwdriver to loosen and remove the screws. If the screws are stuck, you can tap on the screwdriver head with a hammer to help loosen them.
  3. Pull the knob off. Once the screws are removed, the knob should come off easily. If it doesn’t, gently wiggle it back and forth until it releases.
  4. Repeat for the other side. Follow the same steps to remove the other knob on the opposite side of the door.

Tips for Success

  • Be gentle. Don’t force anything. If the knob is stuck, there’s probably a reason.
  • Use a lubricant. If you’re having trouble removing the screws, try applying a little lubricant like WD-40.
  • Don’t forget the escutcheon plate. If your door knob has an escutcheon plate, make sure to remove it before taking off the knob.

Want to Install New Knobs?

If you’re replacing your old door knobs, you can find a wide variety of styles and finishes at your local hardware store or online. Before installing your new knobs, make sure to clean the door and the strike plate. Then, follow the instructions that come with your new knobs.

Need a little extra help?

There are plenty of online resources that can provide more detailed instructions on how to remove old door knobs in 60 seconds. You can find helpful videos on YouTube or articles on home improvement websites. If you’re still having trouble, don’t be afraid to ask a friend or a professional for help.

Other related searches you might find helpful:

  • How to remove old doorknobs
  • How to replace old doorknobs
  • How to remove doorknobs with stuck screws
  • How to remove doorknobs without screws
  • How to remove doorknobs without damaging the door
  • How to remove doorknobs that are stripped
  • How to remove doorknobs on a hollow core door
  • How to remove doorknobs on a solid core door
  • Best doorknob removal tools
  • How to choose the right doorknobs for your home

Removing Old Door Knobs: A Simple Guide

Q: What tools do I need to remove an old door knob?

A: You’ll need a screwdriver that fits the screws on your door knob. You might also need a Phillips head screwdriver if the screws are Phillips-style.

Q: How do I remove the screws from the door knob?

A: Locate the screws holding the door knob to the door plate. Use your screwdriver to turn the screws counterclockwise. They will come out of the door plate.

Q: What should I do if the screws are stripped?

A: Try using a grip-type screwdriver or pliers to get a better hold. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a drill bit to remove the screws.

Q: What if the door knob is stuck?

A: You can try spraying the door knob with lubricant, like WD-40, to loosen it up. If the door knob is still stuck, you might need to use a wrench or pliers to remove it.

Q: How do I remove the door knob from the door plate?

A: Once the screws are removed, you can gently pull the door knob off the door plate. You may need to wiggle it slightly to loosen it.

Q: What should I do with the old door knob?

A: Dispose of the old door knob responsibly. Check with your local recycling center to see if they accept metal door knobs.

Q: Do I need to replace the door plate as well?

A: Not necessarily. You can usually just replace the door knob. However, if the door plate is damaged or scratched, you may want to replace it as well.

Q: How do I install the new door knob?

A: Simply reverse the process of removal. Place the new door knob on the door plate and screw it in place.

Conclusion

Removing old door knobs is a simple task that anyone can accomplish with the right tools and a little know-how. First, locate the set screws and loosen them using a screwdriver. Next, carefully pull the knob off the spindle. You may need to wiggle it slightly to detach it from the latch. Once the knob is off, remove the latch plate by unscrewing the screws holding it in place. If your door knob has a separate rosette, remove that as well. Remember to label each part as you take it off to make reinstallation easier.

Now that you’ve successfully removed your old door knobs, you can start planning your next project. Are you ready to upgrade to stylish new hardware or maybe even a smart lock? Share your plans in the comments below! And don’t forget to spread the word about this helpful guide on social media. Let’s help others learn how easy it is to tackle their own home improvement projects.

Comments

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *