How to replace a broken door handle

This is a relatively straight forward task, even for the less than enthusiastic DIY’er. Either follow our step by step guide or watch our simple video.

Tools you will need	Duration
Manual or Electric Screwdriver Measuring Tape Replacement Handle	5 minutes

Removing your existing handle

Let's start by covering the steps for removing the old door handle. You may want to have a go at removing the old handle before buying a new one to ensure you choose the right handle. Most common door designs use a universal sized handle giving customers a large range of options to choose from.

Step 1

First, make sure the door you are working on is secured safely open using a door wedge. This will make the procedure easier to complete without the worry of the door closing mid-operation.

Step 2

Then begin to loosen the screws that are holding the handle in place. Composite door handles typically have two screws holding them in place and they will be on the inside of the door for security. If you're struggling to locate the screws, they will most likely be covered by caps for aesthetic purposes.

Step 3

Once you have removed the screws, both the outer handle and the interior handle will slide out together. Make sure you do this slowly and to keep hold of both outer and interior handles as you remove them. You don’t want to lose or damage any pieces in case they are needed again in the future.

Installing your new door handle

The process for installing the new handle is the same as the process to remove the pre-existing handle, just in the reverse order. So as long as you have measured your old handle accurately, replacing your door handle should be extremely simple and stress-free, with all the features lining up perfectly in place. A final check should be carried out before calling the job completed. Move the handle up and down to check if it moves freely and to see if the mechanics open and close the door properly. Try locking and unlocking the door using the key, to make sure you have a secure door and handle that protects your house and its belongings. Changing a door handle is extremely simple and almost anyone can easily take on the job themselves. With our guide, you should find the task a breeze, saving you the time and cost of hiring a professional to carry out the job for you.

Step 1

Grab your new replacement handle and fit the new spindle in the place of the old handle.

Step 2

Then add the new handle onto the opposite side of the door and secure it.

Step 3

After that, you will need to secure the handle in place by slotting the screws through the handle into the door and fix it in.

How to replace a broken door handle