Yes, you absolutely can change door handles. It's a common home improvement task.
Changing an existing door handle is generally considered slightly easier than installing a handle on a brand new door. This is because the necessary holes for the spindle and the latch mechanism are already drilled in the door and the door frame.
Why Changing is Easier
According to the reference, a key reason changing a handle is simpler is that the primary work of creating openings in the door has already been done.
- Pre-drilled Holes: The existing handle means there are already holes for the spindle (the bar connecting the two handles) and the latch (the part that goes into the door frame to keep the door closed). This saves significant measuring and drilling steps.
Potential Consideration: Hole Alignment
While changing is easier, it's not always a simple swap. The reference points out that:
"...because all door knobs and handles are different, you may need to check that these holes align in your replacement door as they do in the old door."
This means:
- Handle Design Differences: Not all door handles are manufactured with the exact same specifications regarding the distance between the spindle hole and the latch hole, or the size and shape of the cover plate (rose or escutcheon).
- Checking Compatibility: Before installing a new handle, it's crucial to compare it to the old one or the existing holes to ensure a proper fit.
How to Approach Changing a Door Handle
Changing a door handle typically involves these steps:
- Remove the Old Handle: Unscrew and take off the old handles, spindle, latch plate on the door edge, and strike plate on the door frame.
- Check New Handle Compatibility: Hold the new handle parts up to the door to see if the holes align correctly. Pay attention to the latch mechanism fitting into the existing mortise (recessed area) and the spindle passing through the central hole.
- Install the New Latch: Insert the new latch mechanism into the door edge and screw in the faceplate.
- Install the New Handles: Insert the spindle through the latch mechanism. Attach the handles to either side, ensuring they engage with the spindle and latch. Screw the handles or their cover plates into the door.
- Install the New Strike Plate: If your new handle kit includes a strike plate (the metal piece on the door frame the latch clicks into), replace the old one. Ensure it aligns perfectly with the new latch.
By following these steps and paying attention to the alignment of the existing holes with your new handle, you can successfully change your door handles.
