How to Install a New Door Knob Interior Latch Assembly

Installing an entire door knob is a very easy DIY project. You can purchase a brand new door knob for as little as $15 or you can spend more for a state-of-the-art door knob. Replacing a door knob is something many people want to provide a quick upgrade or replace broken parts. The interior latch assembly of a door knob can rust and get damaged through mishandling. Things such as slamming doors or shutting a door without releasing the door knob are all ways it can become damaged. If you can find just the latch assembly, you can easily replace it and this article will show you how.

Step 1 - Remove the Door Knob

How you remove the door knob depends on the kind of door knob you have. Some are very easy while others require you to inspect it closely. Look at the plate behind the door knob. It is either small and round or more rectangular. Look for any screws on it and remove them. Make sure you put them to the side so you can put the door knob back together.

If there are no screws holding it in place, inspect the stem of the door knob. There will either be very small screws or a slight indentation with a silver spot inside it. Remove the tiny screws and pull the door knob off of the door. Grip the door and pull off the other door knob. The entire assembly should come with it although you may need to remove other screws (it's not necessary though).

If you have the indentation, push the silver part down with a flathead screwdriver. While it is depressed pull off the door knob. If the other side of the door knob is stuck, you may need to pry it off with the flathead screwdriver. If the door knob was painted, score around the edge with the utility knife.

Step 2 - Remove the Door Latch

Make sure you have the door open. On the edge of the door is a small plate where the door knob latch is extruding through. Remove the screws holding it in place and pry it from the door. Slide the door knob latch out of the door.

Step 3 - Replace the Latch and the Door Knob

Slide the new door knob latch assembly inside the door through the side. Grab the door knob assembly that came off in one large piece and place it back on the door. Make sure the spindle threads through the latch. You may need to play with it a little bit to get it to fit. Hold it in place and slide the other door knob onto the spindle. Replace all of the screws you removed previously and tighten them. You may need to play with the door knob assembly to line it up. Replace the latch plate.