How to change and replace a door handle

The door handle can be one of the most unassuming parts of an installation, but it plays an integral role in both style and function. If your handle doesn’t meet a desired aesthetic or can’t be fixed, it might be time to change it; that’s where our how-to guide comes in.

We’ll take you through the process of changing and replacing a door handle, including the tools you need to get the job done efficiently. If you’re on the lookout for a new handle as part of the job, our extensive collection has numerous options to choose from based on your requirements.

What kind of door handle do I need?

There are many kinds of door handle out there, so finding the right one for the job comes down to two elements: the style and the function.

Think about which handle would be suitable in your property:

• Door handle or door knob – a handle can be easier for many people to open, in particular those with disabilities or children. Door knobs are more versatile when it comes to aesthetics, and they can be rotated in either direction
• Style of the property – the look of your home or workplace can affect which kind of door handle you need. If the property is older or has a vintage aesthetic, a door knob might be more suitable
• The design – if you opt for a door handle, you’ll then need to choose between one with a backplate or on rose. Handles with backplates have a traditional look that suits rustic properties, whilst handles on rose are more minimal in design. However, this does mean that handles on rose often don’t come with space for a lock or escutcheon
• The finish – the type of property you have will also factor into the handle’s finish. Period homes can often suit brass finishes, whereas modern properties are ideal for chrome or nickel handles

What you need

To change a door handle, you’ll need the following:

• New handle
• Screwdriver
• Drill
• Tape measure

1 – Measurements

To start, you’ll need to measure the backset; do this by starting from the centre of the spindle hole to the door’s outer edge.

The backset measurement will differ between door handles and door knobs:

• Handles should have a backset of 45mm
• Door knobs should have a backset of 57mm

2 – Remove the old handles

With the measurements jotted down, it’s time to remove the old door handles. Prop open the door so it doesn’t close while you’re working, and locate the screws on the cover plate. Use your screwdriver to release them; the handle should then be loose enough to remove.

3 – Remove the plate, latch and strike plate

Now that the handles have been taken off, you’ll also need to remove the plate and latch.

Starting with the plate, take your screwdriver and insert it into the small slot along the plate’s side; twist until the plate comes off. Next, undo the screws beneath where the plate was, releasing the latch. You should now be able to remove the latch by sliding it out from its holding.

Finally, unscrew the strike plate along the doorjamb.

4 – Fit the latch mechanism and spindle

Before installing your new door handles, you need to fit the latch. Insert it into the edge of the door until the plate sits firmly in place. Connect the plate with screws, using your drill to keep everything secure.

Take the door knob or handle you want to fit and line it up with the spindle. Next, orientate the latch mechanism with the holes along the edge of the door, ensuring that the spindle can pass through to the other side.

 5 – Connect the new handles

You can now attach your new handles. Connect them to the spindle on either side of the door and line them up with the screw holes. Before attaching them, however, pull the handle levers down gently to test they are working correctly.

If all is well, secure the handles into the screw holes.

There you have it: your new door handles are secure and ready to be used. Changing handles is one of many jobs you can undertake when maintaining a door.