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Home > Removing an Old Door Knob

Removing Old Door Knobs

There are several types of door knobs - but most all knobs can be removed in just a few simple steps. Replacing a damaged or worn door knob is not a task that requires special skills or a large amount of time. It is always best to choose your replacement hardware before removing the old knobs. While door knobs are sold in standard sizes, there are a few different varieties out there. These instructions are written to cover the removal of most all types of door knobs.

Normally, the only tools you will require is a screwdriver. It is best to keep both types on hand, regular flat head and a Phillips head. With the tools in hand, let's take the removal of the door knob set one step at a time.

1. The round trim, or plates, are called the Rosettes. It is best to loosen the Rosettes first. Some Rosettes snap into place while other may be screwed into the wood door. To loosen the Rosette plates, simply unscrew them. If they snap in place, you will need to pry the Rosettes from the door mechanism. Take special precaution as to not damage the wood - search around the Rosette and you will find a small indentation where a small screwdriver can be used to pry it from the door.

2. Once the Rosettes are loose, you can then remove the door knobs. The knobs are attached together by a 'Spindle Rod'. Some old-style door knobs have a simple set-screw at the base of the knob. Loosen the set screw and you can then un-screw the door knobs from the spindle. Some other door knobs have a small indentation at the base of the knob - this style is 'spring loaded.' To remove these knobs, simply push in the metal indentation at the base and the knob will easily come off of the spindle rod.

3. Once one knob is removed, you should now be able to pull the knobs apart and out of the door completely. Once the doorknobs are out, you'll note two screws holding the door mechanism in place. Remove both screws and the bolt.

4. You may also wish to replace the strike plate. The strike plate is the small metal plate that catches the bolt or lock and it is located on the door frame opposite to the knob. Note: This is an unnecessary step in most doorknob replacement jobs.

Once the knobs are removed, you are ready to replace the door with the new hardware.

Click here to view the instructions for installing the Door Knobs.


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LookInTheAttic & Co

"I love your site! I think your prices are great, better than most and the quality of the product is fantastic! I ordered these cabinet knobs twice and was delighted with the product. They look great on the antique dresser I have! We are so delighted with your cabinet knobs that we just ordered all new light blue glass knobs and drawer pulls for all of our kitchen cupboards! I would definitely recommend your site to anyone who loves glass knobs!"
Jean S., Richfield, MN

"As a professional chef and host of a cable cooking show, I understand that presentation is nearly as important as taste. I am always looking for the perfect bowl, plate or serving dish. You never fail to bring me the finest tableware for my latest creations."
Amy C., Chicago, IL

"I purchased a bronze door knocker and a solid brass kick plate from you last month. Both the door knocker and kickplate exceeded my expectations and made my front entry look great. I am planning on getting a new door knob set, too - I love the Oil Rubbed Bronze and Antique Copper finishes you offer!"
David V., San Mateo, CA

"Larger retailers wanted nearly twice as much for the glass doorknob sets. My glass doorknobs are for modern doors - and they fit perfectly. The ones I purchased from you were easy to install, high quality and looked great. It is nice to know that I can update and detail my home without taking out a new mortgage. Next I plan on updating with the antique brass door hinges and victorian hardware. I only wish you also sold furniture!"
Jeff T., Sterling Heights, MI

"It is hard to find high quality colored glassware - lookintheattic has an amazing collection. Cake stands, pedestal cake plates and cake domes - I love it. I never need to worry about shipping glass, too - you are experts and my dinner parties are always a hit!"
Meredith Y., Seattle, WA

"Did You Know? LookInTheAttic & Co. was recently named as one of the Top 10 business moves by the Ann Arbor News. See the InTheNews section for more details."
Thank you!

"This letter is to Thank You for your quick and excellent service. The wedding gifts I ordered are better than expected and shipping was perfect. Using your website was easy. I appreciate all the time spent on my order. Your site is perfect for weddings and baby shower gifts. Thanks!"
Darren H., Victoria, BC, CANADA

"It was a pleasure finding exactly what I wanted so easily on the internet. lookintheattic was an easy website to use, the product was exactly as described, and the shipping was fast! I'd shop there again anytime."
Jane G., Lakewood, OH

"I am a returning customer - my first order was near perfect but I counted the number of knobs I needed for my kitchen. Your customer service person was very nice! Cordial customer service, prompt delivery. Item just as described, and a good value at that."
Carlos A., Los Angeles, CA

"I ordered the ruby red bridges for my kitchen and they are perfect. I wish that I could find them close to home - but the local stores don't have near the selection. They are also more expensive and the free shipping makes it a good deal. Thanks so much for making the purchase easy."
Lisa B., El Segundo, CA

"I remodel furniture and it is hard to find glass and crystal knobs at a reasonable price. I am pleased with my purchase. The glass knobs and pulls are better than expected and shipping was very fast. I can't wait to start another project so I can order some more!"
Dana M., Sonora, CA

"Value for product offered was very good. Product was honestly represented. I was very pleased with the salt spoons and open salt. I collect salt cellars and I am glad I found your site - I got my collection from my Mom and I am happy to keep it going. You have a good selection and it changes often. Thank you very much."
Randy C., Austin, Texas

"I am so happy with my purchase. I am planning on buying some more door pulls and handles."
Ann M., Camden, Maine

"Prompt shipping, securely packaged, beautiful glassware!"
Loreen V., Kalamazoo, Michigan

"I have trouble changing light bulbs - so when it came time to change door knobs, I was worried. The instructions were okay, but when I got stuck your hardware people really helped me out. They were installed by me - professionally! Great customer service - very helpful in all respects. We love the products and the prices were fantastic. Thank you."
David C., Palo Alto, California

"We received all of our items quickly and correctly. Each item was packed with care!"
Samantha G., Los Angeles, California

"Did You Know? LookInTheAttic & Co. products are to be featured in issues of House Beautiful Magazine, Romantic Homes Magazine, Home and Garden Television and Domino."
InTheNews

"Very nice and quality glassware. Beautiful cake plate!"
Terry C., Colorado Springs, Colorado

"Oh My! Even better than the photos! This company delivers!"
Ray R., West Lafayette, Indiana

"We have purchased items many times with lookintheattic. Very happy customers indeed!"
Mandy S., Rockland, Massachusetts

"The customer service people were friendly and helpful. They even answered the phones after hours!"
Candis A., Melbourne, Florida

"Easy online ordering and quick shipments. Beautiful items - we love it!"
Joan & Norman P., Santa Rosa, California

"Perfect international transaction, nice item as described, well packed, quickly sent---what more could you want?"
Jean F., Western Australia

"These are fantastic - the best pricing around! I will be back for more!"
John H., Toronto, Canada

"I have to give 5 Stars on everything but Customer Service because they were so good about everything there was no need for me to call customer service!"
Amy W., Glen Burnie, Maryland

"Great packaging. Excellent pieces. AAAAAA"
Jorge A., Conroe, Texas

"Fantastic item! Fast shipping! Great transaction!"
Maureen C., Salt Lake City, Utah

"Wonderful packing and beautiful glass! Thank you!"
Robin M., Hendersonville, North Carolina

"Fast service and packaged very well. Beautiful piece of glass!"
David C., New South Wales, Australia

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Removing an Old Door Knob
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