How to Install Door Hardware

Things You Need:

• Door hinges
• Door knob
• Flathead screwdriver

• Hammer
• Power drill

Whether you're installing brand-new doors or you just want to update your home with new door hardware accents, you'll need to know how to install the door hinges, handles and door knobs. Here are a few steps to help you get your door hardware changed, one door at a time, without scratching your beautiful hardware or your doors.

Installing Door Hardware:

1. Remove the old door. Remove the pins from the door hinges first to avoid bending the door hardware or cracking the wood of the door. You may want to have somebody hold the door steady as you remove the hinge pins.

2. Insert your screwdriver into the door-hinge barrel from underneath and use the hammer to pop the pins out.

3. Carefully remove the door and set it aside.

4. Swap the old and new hinges. Use your screwdriver or drill to remove the screws and pull the old door hinges out of their recessed mortises. You can then replace them with the new door hardware. If needed, you can repair unusable screw holes with wood putty before installing the new door hardware.

5. Remove the old door handle. You may need to remove a trim cover at the base of the door knob or door handle to access the screws that hold the assembly together. Once the screws are out, the inside and outside door knobs will pull apart. The remaining door hardware will come out next.

6. Remove the bolt latch. The remaining door hardware consists of the bolt for the door lock and the strike plates on the door and door frame. Simply remove the screws on the plates and remove them. You may need to pry the cylinder out of the door, using a screwdriver.

7. Install the new door hardware. Insert the bolt for the new door lock and attach the strike plates. Then assemble the new door knob or door handle. Take care that the lock side of the door hardware is installed so that the lock is on the inside of the door. Test the door hardware to be sure it turns and locks properly.

8. Re-hang the door. Have your assistant hold the door as you align the door hinges and insert the hinge pins, being careful not to scratch any door hardware. Be sure that the door hinges are flush and that the door opens, closes and locks properly.

Door Hardware Tips:

1. To keep your door hardware from getting scratched, wrap a rag around your screwdriver as you remove hinge pins and screws.

2. If any of your door hinges are spring-loaded, you may need to use clamps to hold the hinges open while you remove them.