Removing a doorknob is a straightforward home improvement task that most DIYers can tackle. With some basic tools and a bit of know-how, you’ll have that old, worn-out knob off in no time. Let’s go over the steps for how to remove a doorknob so you can update the hardware or replace the lock.
Gather Your Materials
Before getting started, make sure you have everything you’ll need:
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Needle nose pliers
- Hammer
- Putty knife
- Replacement doorknob (optional)
You likely already have the basic hand tools like screwdrivers around the house. Specialty tools like needle nose pliers will help with stubborn screws. And a putty knife will come in handy if you need to chisel away old caulk or paint.
Optionally, pick up a new doorknob so you can install the replacement right after removing the old knob. Getting the matching measurements for your existing hardware ahead of time will ensure a smooth installation.
Remove the Screws
Start by removing the doorknob’s visible screws using the correct screwdriver head. There will typically be two screws on the interior knob and two screws on the exterior knob or handle.
If you don’t see any visible screw heads, look on the underside of the knob for hidden or recessed screws. You may need to wedge the edge of a flathead screwdriver under the knob edge to pop it off and access the fasteners.
Having trouble getting the old screws out because of stripping or sticking? Try these tricks:
- Firmly push the screwdriver into the slot to get better traction.
- Spray screws with WD-40 or another lubricant to loosen up rust.
- Grip stripped screws tightly with pliers as you unscrew.
- Drill into stubborn screws before removing to break the hold.
Getting access to all screw heads is key to dismantling the knob. Take your time removing each one.
Pull Off the Interior Knob
With all fasteners removed, carefully pull the interior doorknob assembly away from the door. Rock it gently side to side if needed to detach it.
Be prepared for some resistance as old caulk or paint may cause it to stick. If it won’t budge, you can try:
- Inserting a putty knife around the edge to break the seal.
- Lightly tapping with a hammer on the knob edges.
- Twisting more forcefully while pulling outward.
Work slowly to avoid damaging the door surface. The knob should eventually come free, exposing the interior mechanism.
Remove the Outer Part Next
Now move to the exterior side of the door to tackle the other half of the hardware. The outer knob, handle, or lever will be attached in the same fashion.
Use a screwdriver to remove any obvious screws first. You may find concealed fasteners on the underside as well.
As with the interior, take care not to strip the heads as you work the screws free. Leverage, lubrication, and alternate screwdrivers can help if necessary.
Don’t forget to look for any screws or bolts going into the door jamb as well. Remove these completely free the exterior assembly.
Extract the Interior Mechanisms
With both halves of the knob removed, turn your attention to the latch mechanism inside the door.
You should see components like the latchbolt faceplate, spindle, spring, and general lock housing. Removing all the interior parts is key for installing new hardware.
First, press down on the latchbolt with a screwdriver before pulling it out of the door edge. The spring will be connected to the end.
Next, unscrew any remaining fasteners to detach the faceplate and other hardware mounted inside the mortise pocket. Larger mechanisms like deadbolts have more parts to disassemble.
Finally, pull all components out, including the central spindle. Having needle nose pliers handy helps grip and remove small parts.
Clean and Remove Adhesive
Before installing your shiny new knob, take time to clean up the door and ensure proper installation.
Use a putty knife to scrape off any old caulk, sealing tape, or paint drips from the door edge and mortise pocket. Go slowly to avoid gouging the wood.
The knife can also help remove any stubborn adhesive remnants left from the old hardware. Make sure the surfaces are clean for the new knob components.
You can use some sandpaper or a file to smooth out the edges of the mortise cavity as needed so the replacement parts fit right. Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth when finished prepping.
Install the New Knob
With the prep work complete, you’re ready to mount your new doorknob. Follow the manufacturer instructions to correctly assemble the interior and exterior halves before attaching to door.
Make sure all the necessary components are present, including the latch, strike plate, spindle, and any wiring kits.
Most knobs use a similar installation process as the old one you just removed. Insert the interior mechanism into the mortise hole, tighten screws into place, and then secure the exterior assembled knob.
Drive screws firmly into the pre-drilled holes to keep the hardware snug to the door. DO not overtighten though.
If needed, use shims or spacer plates behind the mechanisms to take up any extra space and achieve a tight fit.
Once mounted securely on both sides, test the knob operation several times to ensure smooth latching and locking. Your newly installed hardware should work like a charm!
How to Remove a Doorknob FAQ
Still have some questions about ditching that old, broken knob for a brand new model? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What type of doorknob is easiest to remove?
The easiest doorknobs to remove have visible screw heads on both the interior and exterior sides. This allows you to dismantle the lock and latch components from the front and back. Concealed or recessed screws make the job slightly harder.
How do I get the knob off if it has no screws?
Some older doorknobs rely on a tapered spindle that wedges into the door rather than using screws. Look for a small hole on the knob base. Insert a screwdriver and twist to loosen the taper enough to pull the knob free.
What if the screws are stuck or stripped?
Use pliers for extra grip on the screw heads. Alternatively, drill into stubborn screws to break their holding power before unscrewing. You can also remove the whole mechanism and then deal with extracting the stripped screws afterward if needed.
What do I do if the knob won’t come off the door?
Excess paint or caulk buildup can glue the knob in place. Insert a putty knife around the edges to sever the seal. Give the knob a few forceful wiggles as you pull outward. Tapping lightly with a hammer or mallet around the perimeter can help break it free.
How do I remove the old latch and strike plate?
Use a flathead screwdriver to pry off the latchbolt faceplate. This exposes the mechanism so you can pull the components out of the mortise hole. Unscrew the strike plate from the door jamb as well.
Can I reuse the existing strike plate?
You may be able to reuse the strike plate if it is still in good condition. Test that it aligns properly with the new latchbolt. Bending the metal tab is one way to adjust the fit if needed. But replacement is recommended for optimal security.
What’s the easiest way to clean out the old hardware holes?
Use a sharp putty knife to scrape off old caulk and paint buildup. For stuck-on gunk, try a chemical stripper to dissolve the adhesive before scraping. Some light sanding may help smooth and clean the mortise edges too.
How can I tell if my new knob will fit correctly?
Carefully measure your door thickness and the dimensions of the old mortise cut-out when shopping for a replacement. Matching these measurements as closely as possible ensures proper sizing of the new hardware.
Conclusion
The simple process of removing two screws, wiggling off the knob halves, extracting the lock parts, cleaning up the door surface, and installing your new hardware can completely transform the look and function of your home in just a short DIY session.
Following the steps outlined above will have that outdated, broken knob swapped for a shiny new model—no costly handyman required. Just take your time, be patient with stuck screws or adhesive, and use the right tools for the job.
With some strategic twisting, prying, and unscrewing, you can successfully remove a doorknob and gain a little extra confidence taking on minor improvements around the house. So grab a screwdriver and get ready to remove that stubborn old knob once and for all!