Removing a door knob may seem tricky, but it’s actually a simple DIY task when you know what to look for. Whether you're dealing with visible screws, hidden screws, or modern lever handles, this step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to remove a door knob safely and quickly.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- How to remove a door knob with visible screws
- How to remove a door knob without screws (hidden fasteners)
- How to remove lever-style door handles
- What tools you need for each type
How to Take Off a Doorknob With Visible Screws
Removing a Traditional Round Door Knob
Tools typically include:
- Phillips head screwdriver (#2 size typical)
- Small flathead screwdriver
- Container for small parts
Traditional knobs are the most common type in homes, and you'll typically see 1-3 screws on the interior side of the door (the side without a keyhole). The steps to remove these doorknobs are as follows:
- Locate the Mounting Point on the Interior Side: Check for small screws on the top of therosette plate or for a small slot/pinhole on the neck of the doorknob. On some models, the mounting point may be partially hidden; run your finger around the neck of the knob to find it.
- Unscrew the Interior Knob: If you find screws on the rosette plate, remove them with a matching screwdriver (turning counterclockwise). If you find a slot/pinhole, insert a small flathead screwdriver and press the spring clip while pulling the knob.
- Remove the Interior Knob. Pull the interior knob and rosette plate in the opposite direction, and they will slip out. Don't forget to replace any lost screws.
- Remove Exterior Knob: Once the interior side is off, the exterior knob (keyed side) should easily pull straight out. The spindle (metal bar connecting both knobs) will come out with it. If it sticks, check for any remaining hardware holding it in place.
- Remove the Strike Plate: This step is only necessary if you are installing a new knob. Look for the screws that hold thestrike plate in place on the door’s edge. Use a screwdriver and remove the screws. Once the plate has been removed, it will easily come off from the side of the door.
Commercial Door Knob Removal
Tools typically include:
- Allen wrench/hex key (size varies by manufacturer)
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Door wedge or second person.
- Container for mounting hardware
Commercial door knobs are heavy-duty compared to residential knobs and usually mount through the entire door. These knobs can include either visible or hidden screws, but we will cover removal specifically with visible screws. Follow these steps for removal:
- Identify Mounting Hardware: Most commercial pulls use through bolts or security fasteners. Look for Allen screws or other fasteners on the interior side of the door. Some models have decorative caps covering the mounting hardware, which can usually be pried off with a flathead screwdriver.
- Remove Interior Mounting Hardware: Using the appropriate tool—often an Allen wrench—remove all mounting hardware from the interior side. Set aside any washers or spacers as they come off.
- Support and Remove the Pull: While removing the final screws, support the pull on both sides of the door, as it will come loose from both sides simultaneously. Commercial pulls can be heavy, so be prepared to hold the weight.
- Remove Any Mounting Plates: If the pull uses backing plates or mounting plates, remove these after the pull is off. Some plates may have extra screws securing them to the door.
How to Take Off a Doorknob With Hidden Screws
Plate-Style Door Knob Removal
Tools typically include:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Putty knife (optional - helpful for removing old plates without scratching)
- Container for multiple screws and decorative caps
Plate-style knobs feature a decorative plate that's larger than traditional rosettes. Here's how to remove them:
- Locate Hidden Screws: Look for small screws along the plate's edge, particularly at the top and bottom. Some models have decorative caps covering the screws - pry these off gently with a flathead screwdriver. Other models may have screws hidden behind the knob.
- Remove the Interior Knob: Some knobs separate from the plate, others do not. If the knob cannot be removed, skip to the next step. If the knob separates from the plate, locate the mounting point on the knob's neck (usually a slot or pinhole). Insert a small flathead screwdriver and press the spring clip while pulling the knob.
- Remove the Plate and Hardware: Once all screws are removed, pull the interior plate straight out from the door. The exterior plate and knob should be loose. Remove them together, and be careful not to drop the spindle or any small parts.
- Remove Strike Plate: If replacing the entire set, unscrew and remove the strike plate from the door frame. Some decorative strike plates may also have a larger matching plate that needs removal.
How to Remove a Lever Door Handle
Tools typically include:
- Small flathead screwdriver or manufacturer's tool (for release mechanism)
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Allen wrench (some models)
- Container for small parts
Lever handles are increasingly common in modern homes and are required in many commercial settings for accessibility. Most use a concealed mounting system that's hidden from view. Here's how to remove them:
- Locate the Release Mechanism: Look for a small slot, hole, or detent on the neck of the lever (the part closest to the door). Some models may have a removable decorative collar at the lever's base; check for a small notch to pry this off.
- Release the Interior Lever: Insert a small flathead screwdriver or manufacturer-provided tool into the slot/hole. Press firmly while pulling the lever away from the door. Some models require you to press the release while rotating the lever slightly. Once released, the lever should slide off, revealing the mounting plate.
- Remove Mounting Hardware: With the lever removed, you'll see mounting screws on the plate. Remove these screws, and the entire mounting assembly will come loose. For through-bolted models, you'll need to remove screws from both sides of the door.
- Remove Exterior Lever and Hardware: Once all screws are removed, the exterior lever and its mounting hardware should pull straight out. The spindle (rectangular or half-moon-shaped bar) may come out with either side; don't lose it as it's needed for reinstallation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you remove a door knob without visible screws?
Most modern door knobs have hidden screws behind a decorative plate or use a release mechanism. Look for a small slot or pinhole near the base of the knob and press it with a flathead screwdriver while pulling the knob off.
What tools do I need to remove a door knob?
Most door knobs can be removed using a Phillips screwdriver and a small flathead screwdriver. Some commercial models may require an Allen wrench.
Why won’t my door knob come off?
If your door knob won’t come off, check for hidden screws or a release pin. Many modern knobs conceal their mounting hardware behind decorative plates.
Can I remove a door knob without tools?
In some cases, you can remove a door knob with minimal tools, but most will require at least a screwdriver to remove mounting screws.
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