How To Remove Interior Door Handle With Lock And Keys

How to Remove an Interior Door Handle with Lock and Keys

Replacing an interior door handle with lock and keys can be a necessary repair or upgrade task. Whether you're dealing with a malfunctioning lock, a broken handle, or simply want to update the aesthetics of your door, this guide will provide you with a step-by-step walkthrough of the process.

Materials and Tools You'll Need:

Phillips head screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver or lock pick
Replacement interior door handle with lock and keys
Drill (optional)
1/8-inch drill bit (optional)

Step 1: Safety Precautions

Before beginning, ensure you take the following safety precautions:

Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from splinters or sharp edges.
Lock the door to prevent accidental opening while working.
Place a towel or mat beneath the door to protect the floor from scratches.

Step 2: Remove the Cover Plate

Locate the cover plate on the interior side of the door, which typically covers the lock mechanism and screws holding the handle in place. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws securing the cover plate and carefully lift it off.

Step 3: Remove the Lock Cylinder

Once the cover plate is removed, you will see the lock cylinder, which houses the keyhole. Insert a flathead screwdriver or lock pick into the hole in the center of the lock cylinder and turn it clockwise to release the lock. The cylinder should slide out slightly.

Step 4: Remove the Lock Assembly

Behind the lock cylinder, you will find the lock assembly, which holds the locking mechanism. Remove the screws securing the lock assembly to the door using a Phillips head screwdriver and carefully pull it out.

Step 5: Remove the Handle

The handle is usually held in place by two screws.Locate the screws on the side of the handle facing the edge of the door. Unscrew them and gently pull the handle out. If the handle is stuck, you may need to use a pry bar or a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry it loose.

Step 6: Install the New Handle

Align the new handle with the holes on the door and insert the screws. Tighten the screws securely using a Phillips head screwdriver. Ensure the handle operates smoothly and locks securely.

Step 7: Reinstall the Lock Assembly

Insert the lock assembly into the door, aligning the holes with the screws you removed earlier. Secure the lock assembly with the screws and tighten them firmly.

Step 8: Reinsert the Lock Cylinder

Slide the lock cylinder back into place and turn it counterclockwise to engage the lock. Make sure the lock operates correctly.

Step 9: Reattach the Cover Plate

Align the cover plate with the holes on the door and secure it with the screws you removed earlier. Tighten the screws until the cover plate is firmly in place.

Step 10: Test the Handle and Lock

Once everything is reassembled, test the handle and lock to ensure they operate smoothly and securely. Insert the key and check if it locks and unlocks the door properly.

Additional Tips:

If you encounter any difficulty removing the handle, check for additional screws hidden under the escutcheon, which is the decorative plate surrounding the keyhole.
When selecting a replacement handle, ensure it fits the lock and matches the door style and finish.
If you are not confident in your DIY skills, consider hiring a professional locksmith for assistance.

By following these steps, you can successfully remove an interior door handle with lock and keys and install a new one, improving the functionality and aesthetics of your door.