Did you ever wonder how to install door hardware that complies with building requirements in Australia? There are numerous advantages to installing door hardware correctly, such as longer service life, better security, and maximum usefulness. This blog explores the factors that will assist you with installing a door knob, or replacing door handle hardware, from selecting and maintaining door hardware to hiring an expert technician to do the job.
Is Installing a Door Knob Hard?
The short answer is no. Although it requires multiple steps, such as unscrewing, aligning pieces, and some light chiselling for a flush fit, it usually just takes common household tools and no specific skills or equipment. However, the type of door and knob you have can cause issues. For example, you can have a problem with replacing door hardware if you are working with older doors or non-standard hardware.
Factors That Affect Difficulty
- Door Type: Hollow-core doors may be easier to install than solid wood doors.
- Pre-existing Hardware: How simple it is to remove a knob that you are changing may depend on how it was installed previously.
- Skill Level: The process will go easier if you possess basic do-it-yourself skills.
- Door and Frame Condition: Problems with doors and frames, such as warping, edge damage, splintering around holes, or a damaged striking plate, make installation and operation more difficult.
- Type of Door Handle Mechanism: A standard tubular latch door handle mechanism is easier to install than complex hardware, like mortise locks or entry sets, which have more parts and hidden fixings.
Can You Install a Door Knob Yourself?
Yes. A lot of homeowners successfully install door knobs themselves. You can help yourself if you have the right tools. Below is a simple checklist of tools you will need:
- A measuring tape takes measurements and placements.
- Mark out placements using a pencil and ruler.
- A leveller to align your door hardware correctly.
- A manual or electric screwdriver for driving screws.
- A drill and drill bits create pilot holes and make openings for locks.
- A hole saw or spade bit creates circular holes for locksets.
- A wood chisel fine-tunes fittings by cutting, shaping, or carving wood.
A hammer gently taps hardware into place.
Steps to Installing a Door Knob Yourself
Take Out the Old Door Knob
Remove the old lockset and measure the distance between the edge of the door and the middle of the lockset hole. We call it the backset. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the knob to the door. Then separate the latch mechanism from the edge of the door.
Mare the Door
Position the door in its frame properly. Make sure your mark is level for horizontal alignment when you measure and mark the standard door handle height, which is usually about 36 inches from the floor. Next, mark the distance between the edge of the door and the handle’s centre, which is typically 60 or 70 mm.
Drill the Holes
The main hole (typically of 54mm diameter) for the handle mechanism should be drilled through the door’s face at the marked centre position using a hole saw. Next, make sure the smaller hole (about 22mm) joins the 54mm hole by drilling it into the door’s edge at the same height.
Install the Latch System
The latch mechanism should be inserted into the hole drilled along the edge of the door. Trace the faceplate with a pencil along the edge of the door. After removing the latch, carefully cut out a small dip with a chisel. Secure the latch using the given screws.
Put the Door Knob On
Now that the latch mechanism is in place, the door knob may be attached. First, insert the door knob’s outer side into the latch mechanism, then its internal side. Screw the door knob into place by aligning the screw holes.
Install or Replace the Strike Plate
Mark the spot on the door frame where the latch bolt needs to be installed. Score the outline using a utility knife. Make sure the hole is slightly larger than the latch bolt’s diameter and deep enough for it to expand fully. Align the screw holes on the strike plate (or drill pilot holes if necessary) and screw firmly.
Steps to Replacing Door Handle
Prepare the Door
Locate the screws holding the current handle in place; they may be visible or concealed beneath a cover plate that needs to be carefully removed. Take reference photos before beginning to disassemble.
Remove the Previous Handle
You can remove the visible screws on both sides of the door with a screwdriver. Once the screws have been removed, pull the handle sides away from the door and remove the spindle holding them together. If your new handle set has a different latch, detach the faceplate on the door edge to remove the old latch mechanism.
Prepare for the New Handle
Check that the main bore and latch of the new handle set fit those of your door’s holes and backset 60 or 70 mm from the door edge to the centre of the main hole. Make sure the replacement latch faceplate fits flush by measuring the size of the latch plate recess on the door edge.
Install the Door Handle
Start by screwing the faceplate into position and inserting the new latch mechanism into the door’s edge hole so that it lies flat. The spindle should then be inserted through the clasp. Adjust the mounting screws until the outer and inner handle sides line up. Adjusting the door handle after installation can confirm that the latch functions properly and it spins freely.
How Hard Is It to Install a Door Knob?
The difficulty level of installing a door knob can vary based on a few factors. Below is a breakdown of factors to consider:
- Standard Door Handle Height: Make sure your new knob is installed at the correct height, typically around 36 inches from the floor.
- Door Handle Hole Size: The standard door handle hole size mm in Australia is 50-54 mm in diameter.
- Adjusting Door Handle Mechanism: If your new knob doesn’t fit perfectly, you may need to adjust the mechanism slightly.
Tips for a Successful Installation
- Use a level to make sure your door knob and latch are aligned correctly.
- Check the thickness of your door, as most door knobs are made for 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 inch thick doors.
- When replacing door hardware, make sure the new hardware matches the size of the old one.
- If your door is thinner or thicker than 35 to 45, use adapters or extensions.
- Always follow the guidelines and templates provided by the manufacturer.
- Check that all components are included before starting.
- If the screws don’t match, drill new holes after filling the old ones with wood filler, sanding, and repainting.
How Much Does It Cost to Have Someone Install a Door Knob?
As of 2025, doorknobs cost from $11 to $95 depending on the type, and installation requires additional labour costs. Doorknobs vary in price depending on the type of door and the location. The table below shows the price of installing a doorknob.
|
Type |
Price |
Labour Fee |
Total Cost |
|
Mortice knob |
$11 to $95 |
$30 to $150 |
$41 to $245 |
|
Door handle on a rose |
$24 to $229 |
$30 to $150 |
$54 to $179 |
|
Door handle on a backplate |
$15 to $440 |
$30 to $150 |
$45 to $590 |
|
Face-fix handle |
$8 to $829 |
$30 to $150 |
$38 to $979 |
How Long Does It Take to Install a Door Knob?
The usual time to install a door knob is between 30 minutes and an hour. A general guideline is provided below:
- The removal of the old knob takes 10 to 15 minutes.
- The door preparation process takes 10 to 20 minutes.
- The new knob installation takes 10 to 15 minutes
- It takes 5 to 10 minutes to test the lock and make adjustments.
In Summary
If you are installing a door knob for the first time or replacing door hardware, following our detailed instructions will help you get professional results. Share this guide by GTG Constructions with your friends and other self-taught individuals so they can confidently take on door handle installation or changing door handle tasks. You can visit our website, give us a call, or submit a project request form to get assistance on any project you have in mind.
