Handle diagnostics and replacement #handyman #diy #maintenance #locksmith, by Chefmadewoodwork on YouTube. 1 min 32 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 32 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Open the door and look for the screws on the handle. Most handles have two screws on the inside rose or plate.
Hold the outside handle so it does not fall, then unscrew both screws and pull the handle halves apart.
Remove the spindle and the latch. Take out the two screws on the latch plate on the door edge and slide the latch out.
Measure the backset, the distance from the door edge to the center of the handle hole. Buy a handle set with the same backset.
Slide the new latch into the edge hole with the curved side facing the door closing direction. Screw the plate down.
Push the spindle through the latch and fit the inside and outside handle halves over it.
Start both screws by hand, then tighten them evenly. Do not overtighten or the handle will bind.
Turn the handle and check the latch moves freely. Close the door and confirm it clicks into the strike plate without rubbing.
Tips and common mistakes
Take the old handle to the store so you match the backset and spindle length exactly.
If the door will not latch, loosen the strike plate screws and nudge the plate until the latch drops in.
Keep the screws in a cup so they do not roll away while you work.
Questions
Do I need to remove the door from its hinges?
No. You can change a handle with the door in place. Just hold the outside half so it does not drop when the screws come out.
What is a backset and why does it matter?
It is the distance from the door edge to the center of the handle hole, usually 60mm or 70mm. A new handle with a different backset will not line up with the old holes.
The new handle feels stiff. What went wrong?
The screws are probably too tight or the spindle is too long. Loosen the screws slightly and check the spindle sits flush.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
