Can you change your front door lock handles by yourself? How would this DIY process be? We often get many questions from people asking whether they can change their front door handles without changing the lock.
People often hesitate to do this rather serious job alone due to the obvious precautions; what if things go south? Of course, there is a considerable security risk if the job is unfinished.
But you don’t have to worry, as this guide has all the minor details on replacing your front door lock without changing a lock. So, let’s get to the topic!
With Our Smart Guide, you will be able to:
Following this guide, you can change your front door locks seemingly fast. The estimated time for different front doors is as follows:
Wooden doors and standard locks: simple replacement
- A 15-to 30-minute time estimate is reasonable
- The difficulty level is easy to moderate
Mortise locks, uPVC doors, composite doors, moderate difficulty
- Estimated time – 30 to 45 minutes
- Moderately difficult
Complex mechanisms, integrated locking systems
- Estimated time – 45 minutes to an hour
- The difficulty level ranges from moderate to hard
Why Change the Front Door Handle?
Here are some reasons why you might consider changing your front door handle before we get started. The following are some reasons why homeowners choose to update their door handles:
- Improved Functionality:
Besides aesthetics, functionality is another important consideration regarding door handles. Operating old or faulty handles may be rugged, causing frustration and inconvenience for you and your family. You can enjoy added convenience and peace of mind by upgrading to a new handle.
- Enhanced security:
Maintaining your property’s security requires a durable and reliable door handle. You can increase the security of your home and deter potential burglars by replacing an old or worn handle with a more robust and secure option.
- Saves money
It is more economical to replace just the handle rather than the lock. Consider this option if you wish to minimize expenses.
Change the Handle Without Changing the Lock
Many interior doors in homes and offices have relatively simple locking mechanisms, so replacing the handle does not require modifying the lock.
The modular design of doors, such as those made of uPVC or composite materials, also provides versatility, allowing specific components to be replaced without affecting the entire locking mechanism. Follow this step-by-step guide to get started:
- Disassemble the old handle:
Start by having your handy screwdriver in hand. Check if it turns the screws off the handle. Based on the design, you might need to unscrew both the internal and outer components of the door handle.
Unscrew and safely remove the components of the handle. Remove the plate of the handle. And remove the handle.
- Align and measure:
Ensure that the new handle set is compatible with your door by taking note of the dimensions of the existing handle.
Make sure the handle and latch are aligned by measuring the distance between their centers.
- Mount the new handle:
Place the new handle over the predrilled holes in the door, lining up the latch with the strike plate on the jamb. Tighten the screws provided with your new handle set with your screwdriver.
- Perform an operation test:
After installing the new handle, test it to ensure it operates smoothly and securely. Check that the door opens and closes smoothly by turning the handle to engage the latch.
- Finishing the Job:
You may need minor adjustments if the latch doesn’t align correctly with the strike plate or the handle feels loose.
Before tightening the screws again, loosen them a little and reposition the handle as necessary.
Factors to Take Into Consideration
It is important to keep the following considerations in mind before changing your front door handle:
1. A compatibility issue:
Check that your new handle set will work with your current lock mechanism and door configuration.
For a proper fit, check the dimensions and specifications of the handle. Mismatched handles may make it difficult to operate the door or compromise its security.
- Safety:
Although changing the handle can improve aesthetics and functionality, security should always be prioritized.
Check the new handle set’s security features and ensure it offers adequate protection against intruders.
- Assistance from a professional:
Seek professional Locksmith help if you have questions about the installation process or encounter any difficulties.
A professional locksmith or handyperson can have the handle installed properly and securely. With their expertise and tools, they can handle the job safely and efficiently, minimizing the risk of damage.
Conclusion
Following our guide instructions, you can easily replace your old lock door with a new one. Nevertheless, contacting a professional locksmith before you hoop into this DIY project is best.
This will ensure that a professional will help you finish the job if anything goes seemingly wrong.
