Every homeowner encounters the dreaded moment when their door knob loosens or falls off, leaving them stranded with an inoperable door. While it may seem like a daunting task to fix, putting a door knob back on is a relatively straightforward and affordable DIY project that can be completed with minimal tools and effort. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with clear, step-by-step instructions, accompanied by helpful visuals, to ensure a successful repair.
First and foremost, it’s crucial to gather the necessary tools for the job. These typically include a screwdriver, a Phillips head or flat head depending on the type of screws used, and possibly an adjustable wrench. Once you have your tools ready, you can begin the repair process by carefully removing the old or loose doorknob. In most cases, you’ll need to unscrew a set of screws located on the interior side of the door, which will detach the knob from the door assembly. If there is a locking mechanism present, additional steps may be required to remove it, such as unscrewing a small set screw or removing a retaining clip.
With the old doorknob removed, you can now install the new one. Carefully align the new doorknob over the door assembly, ensuring that the spindle, the square-shaped shaft that goes through the door, is properly inserted into the hole. Secure the knob in place by tightening the screws on the interior side of the door, using a screwdriver. Once the knob is firmly attached, test it to ensure that it operates smoothly and locks securely. If necessary, adjust the screws or spindle to optimize the knob’s performance.
Identifying the Correct Door Knob
To ensure a successful door knob replacement, it is crucial to identify the appropriate knob for your door. This involves examining the following key factors:
Lockset Type
Determine the type of lockset installed on your door. Common lockset types include:
| Lockset Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Mortise Lockset | Installed within the doorframe, requiring a mortise cut. |
| Rim Lockset | Mounted on the surface of the door, without a mortise cut. |
Spindle Size
Measure the diameter of the spindle shaft that connects the knobs on the inside and outside of the door. Common spindle sizes include 1/4 inch and 5/16 inch.
Door Thickness
Measure the thickness of your door to ensure that the knob fits properly. Door knobs come in various lengths to accommodate different door thicknesses.
Knob Style
Select a door knob that complements the style of your door and home decor. Common styles include traditional, modern, and rustic knobs.
Finish
Consider the finish of the knob, such as brass, nickel, or matte black, to match other hardware in your home.
Gathering the Necessary Tools
Before embarking on the task of replacing a door knob, it is imperative to gather the appropriate tools to ensure a smooth and efficient process. The following items are essential:
1. Screwdriver: A Phillips-head screwdriver is typically used for door knobs. Ensure that the size of the screwdriver matches the screws securing the knob.
2. Wrench: A crescent wrench or an adjustable wrench is required to loosen and tighten the spindle, which connects the knob to the latch mechanism. It is recommended to choose a wrench that provides a secure grip without damaging the spindle.
| Tool | Purpose |
|—|—|
| Phillips-head screwdriver | To loosen and tighten screws |
| Crescent wrench or adjustable wrench | To loosen and tighten the spindle |
| Pliers(optional) | To remove any burrs or splinters |
| Flashlight(optional) | For illuminating dark areas |
Removing the Old Door Knob
Before you can install the new doorknob, you need to remove the old one. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Gather your tools
To remove the door knob, you’ll need the following tools:
- Screwdriver
- Allen wrench
- Pliers
2. Remove the screws holding the knob in place
Locate the two screws that are holding the knob in place. They are usually located on the inside of the door, near the edge. Using a screwdriver, remove the screws and set them aside.
3. Remove the knob handle
Once the screws are removed, you should be able to pull the knob handle off the spindle. If it’s stuck, you can use a pair of pliers to gently pry it off. Be careful not to damage the knob handle or the spindle.
| If the knob handle is stuck, try the following: | – Spray some WD-40 or other penetrating oil around the spindle. Let it sit for a few minutes, then try to remove the knob handle again. |
| – If the WD-40 doesn’t work, you can try using a heat gun to heat up the spindle. Once the spindle is hot, try to remove the knob handle again. | |
| – If the knob handle is still stuck, you may need to use a hacksaw to cut through the spindle. |
Tightening the Screws
Once you have aligned the knob and spindle, it’s time to tighten the screws. This is a crucial step, as you want to ensure that the knob is firmly secured in place. To do this, follow these steps:
- Holding the knob in place, insert the screws into the holes.
- Using a screwdriver, turn the screws clockwise until they are snug. Do not overtighten the screws, as this could damage the knob or the door.
- If you are using a set screw, insert it into the hole on the side of the knob. Using an Allen wrench or Torx screwdriver (depending on the type of screw), turn the screw clockwise until it is tight.
- Once all the screws are tightened, check that the knob is securely attached. If it is still loose, tighten the screws further.
- Using a small hammer or a block of wood, gently tap the knob around the edges to ensure that it is fully seated. Do this by tapping around the circumference of the knob, moving the hammer or block of wood around the outside of the knob.
Additional Tips for Tightening the Screws
Here are some additional tips for tightening the screws:
- Use the correct type of screwdriver for the screws. This will help to prevent the screws from stripping.
- Apply a small amount of thread sealant to the screws before inserting them. This will help to prevent the screws from loosening over time.
- If you are having trouble tightening the screws, you can try using a pair of pliers. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this could damage the knob or the door.
Replacing the Cover Plate
Once the knob is reattached, it’s time to replace the cover plate. This is typically a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes.
- Locate the screws. The screws that hold the cover plate in place are usually located on the side of the doorknob.
- Remove the screws. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding the cover plate in place.
- Remove the cover plate. Once the screws are removed, you can gently pull the cover plate off of the doorknob.
- Clean the cover plate. While the cover plate is off, take a moment to clean it with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the plate.
- Replace the cover plate. Once the cover plate is clean, you can replace it on the doorknob. Make sure that the plate is aligned properly before screwing it into place.
- Tighten the screws. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws that are holding the cover plate in place. Do not overtighten the screws, as this could damage the cover plate or the doorknob.
Your doorknob is now reattached and the cover plate is replaced. You can now enjoy a fully functioning doorknob!
Aligning the Door Knob
Once the spindle is securely fastened, it’s time to align the door knob. This is especially crucial for double-doorknob setups, as misalignment can lead to the knobs hitting each other when turning. To align the door knobs:
1. Position the Inner Knob: Place the inner knob onto the spindle, ensuring the set screw hole is facing the correct direction (typically outwards). Tighten the set screw to secure it.
2. Install the Outer Knob: Take the outer knob and align it with the inner knob. The keyhole should be in the same orientation as the set screw hole on the inner knob. Slide the outer knob onto the spindle until it meets the inner knob.
3. Tighten the Set Screw: Locate the set screw hole on the outer knob and insert the provided hex key (often included with the door knob kit). Tighten the set screw to secure the outer knob to the spindle.
4. Check Alignment: Gently turn both knobs simultaneously to ensure they move smoothly without any interference or wobbling. Adjust the positioning of the knobs as needed to achieve proper alignment.
Troubleshooting Alignment Issues
If any alignment issues arise, consider these tips:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Knobs Not Aligning When Turning | Check if the spindle is too long and cut it to the appropriate length. |
| Knobs Hitting Each Other | Adjust the positioning of the knobs slightly or replace the latch assembly if it’s not properly installed. |
| Knobs Turning Loosely | Tighten the set screws on both knobs and ensure the spindle is secured firmly in place. |
Dealing with Stripped Screws
Dealing with stripped screws can be a frustrating experience, especially when it comes to door knobs. Here are some effective methods for extracting or replacing stripped screws:
Using a rubber band
Place a rubber band over the stripped screw head and try to turn it. The rubber band provides extra grip, allowing you to apply more torque without slipping.
Using pliers
Grip the stripped screw head with a pair of pliers. Apply pressure and gently twist the screw back and forth until it loosens.
Using a screw extractor
A screw extractor is a specialized tool designed to remove stripped screws. It consists of a tapered end with reverse threads. Insert the extractor into the screw head and turn it counterclockwise to grip and remove the stripped screw.
| Type of Screw Extractor | Method |
|---|---|
| Easy Out | Drill a pilot hole, then screw in the Easy Out. Use a wrench to turn the Easy Out and extract the screw. |
| SpeedOut | Drill a slightly larger hole than the screw. Insert the SpeedOut and tap it into the screw. Use a wrench or drill to turn the SpeedOut and remove the screw. |
| Screw Grabber | Simply push the Screw Grabber over the stripped screw head and turn it with a wrench or pliers to remove the screw. |
Replacing a Stripped Screw
If the stripped screw cannot be extracted, it may need to be replaced. Here’s how to do it:
1. Remove the door knob.
2. Drill out the stripped screw using a drill bit slightly larger than the screw.
3. Clean the hole and insert a new screw of the same size and type.
4. Reattach the door knob.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you are having difficulty putting a door knob back on, there are a few common issues that you may be encountering.
1. The Spindle Is Not Aligned
One of the most common issues is that the spindle is not aligned properly. This can be caused by several things, such as:
- The door is not properly installed.
- The hinges are not aligned properly.
- The doorknob has been forced onto the spindle.
To fix this issue, you need to make sure that the door is properly installed and that the hinges are aligned properly. You can then try to reinstall the doorknob.
2. The Set Screws Are Not Tightened Properly
Another common issue is that the set screws are not tightened properly. This can cause the doorknob to come loose. To fix this issue, simply tighten the set screws using a screwdriver.
3. The Spindle Is Broken
If the spindle is broken, you will need to replace it. To do this, you will need to remove the doorknob and the lock. You can then replace the spindle and reinstall the doorknob and the lock.
4. The Lock Is Broken
If the lock is broken, you will need to replace it. To do this, you will need to remove the doorknob and the lock. You can then replace the lock and reinstall the doorknob.
5. The Door Knob Is Broken
If the door knob is broken, you will need to replace it. To do this, you will need to remove the doorknob and the lock. You can then replace the door knob and reinstall the lock.
6. The Door Is Stuck
If the door is stuck, you may need to lubricate the hinges. To do this, you can use a lubricant spray or a graphite pencil.
7. The Door Is Not Latching Properly
If the door is not latching properly, you may need to adjust the strike plate. To do this, you will need to remove the strike plate and move it slightly. You can then reinstall the strike plate.
8. Multiple Door Knob Types
Doorknobs come in two main types: keyed and unkeyed. Keyed doorknobs require a key to operate, while unkeyed doorknobs can be opened by simply turning the knob.
9. Doorknob Materials
Doorknobs are made from a variety of materials, including:
- Brass
- Bronze
- Chrome
- Nickel
10. Doorknob Finishes
Doorknobs are available in a variety of finishes, including:
- Polished
- Brushed
- Antique
- Textured
How to Put a Door Knob Back On
If your door knob has come loose or fallen off, don’t worry – it’s a relatively easy fix. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to put a door knob back on:
- Remove the old doorknob. If the doorknob is still attached to the door, use a screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding it in place. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to pull the doorknob off of the door.
- Clean the doorknob and the hole in the door. Use a cloth to clean the doorknob and the hole in the door. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that could prevent the doorknob from fitting properly.
- Insert the doorknob into the hole in the door. Make sure that the doorknob is facing the correct direction. The spindle should be facing towards the other side of the door.
- Screw the doorknob into place. Use a screwdriver to screw the doorknob into place. Make sure that the doorknob is tight, but do not overtighten it.
- Test the doorknob. Once the doorknob is in place, test it to make sure that it is working properly. The doorknob should turn smoothly and should not wobble.
People Also Ask About How to Put a Door Knob Back On
Can I put a doorknob back on without removing the door?
Yes, it is possible to put a doorknob back on without removing the door. However, it may be more difficult to do so, as you will need to work around the door frame. To do this, you will need to use a screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding the doorknob in place. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to pull the doorknob off of the door. Then, you can clean the doorknob and the hole in the door, and insert the doorknob into the hole. Finally, you can screw the doorknob into place and test it to make sure that it is working properly.
What if the doorknob is broken?
If the doorknob is broken, you will need to replace it. To do this, you will need to purchase a new doorknob that is the same size and shape as the old one. Once you have the new doorknob, you can follow the steps above to install it.
How do I know if the doorknob is installed correctly?
To test the doorknob to make sure that it is installed correctly, simply turn the knob and make sure that it opens and closes the door smoothly. The doorknob should not wobble or stick.
