Ensuring home security often begins with understanding the components of your door. A common element, the lever door handle, provides both access and security. However, situations arise where knowing how to remove lever door handle becomes essential. For instance, Schlage, a leading manufacturer of door hardware, offers designs with unique removal mechanisms. Understanding these mechanisms requires familiarity with tools like a small screwdriver or Allen wrench. Mastering how to remove lever door handle properly prevents damage and ensures a smooth reinstallation process.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Billshowto , from the video titled Remove door handle / knob without screws visible #3 .
Unlock it! How to Remove Lever Door Handle in Seconds
Removing a lever door handle is a common task for homeowners. Whether you’re replacing a damaged handle, painting a door, or simply adjusting the mechanism, knowing how to remove lever door handle quickly and safely is essential. This guide breaks down the process step-by-step.
1. Understanding Lever Door Handle Mechanisms
Before diving into the removal process, it’s helpful to understand the basic mechanisms involved. Most lever door handles utilize one of two primary methods for securing the handle to the door:
- Setscrew Mechanism: These handles typically have a small setscrew (usually an Allen screw) that holds the handle in place. Loosening this screw allows the handle to slide off.
- Push-Button Mechanism: These handles have a small, often concealed, button that needs to be depressed to release the handle.
Identifying which mechanism your handle uses is crucial for efficient removal.
2. Gathering the Necessary Tools
Having the right tools on hand will make the process significantly smoother and prevent damage. Here’s what you’ll likely need:
- Allen Wrench (Hex Key Set): For setscrew mechanisms. Ensure you have a variety of sizes to find the correct fit.
- Screwdriver (Phillips or Flathead): For any faceplate screws or accessing internal mechanisms (rare, but possible).
- Small, Pointed Object (Paperclip, Awl, or Small Screwdriver): For depressing push buttons (use with caution!).
- Soft Cloth or Towel: To protect the door and handle from scratches.
3. Step-by-Step Removal Instructions
3.1 Removing Handles with a Setscrew
This is the most common type.
- Locate the Setscrew: Examine the handle base, usually on the underside of the lever, for a small hole.
- Loosen the Setscrew: Insert the appropriate size Allen wrench into the hole. Turn it counter-clockwise to loosen the screw. Do not completely remove the screw. Just loosen it enough to release the handle.
- Slide off the Handle: Gently pull the handle away from the door. It should slide off easily once the setscrew is loosened. If it’s stuck, check that the setscrew is sufficiently loose and wiggle the handle slightly.
- Remove the Rose Plate (Escutcheon): This is the decorative plate behind the handle. It may either be a snap-on cover or held in place with screws. If it snaps on, gently pry it off with your fingers or a plastic prying tool. If screwed on, use a screwdriver to remove the screws.
3.2 Removing Handles with a Push-Button
These can be a bit more tricky.
- Locate the Push Button: Look for a small, often recessed, button on the handle base, often on the side closest to the door.
- Depress the Push Button: Using a paperclip, awl, or small screwdriver, gently push the button in and hold it.
- Pull Off the Handle: While holding the button depressed, pull the handle away from the door. It should slide off. If it doesn’t, ensure the button is fully depressed and wiggle the handle gently.
- Remove the Rose Plate (Escutcheon): This is removed the same way as in the setscrew method, either by snapping it off or unscrewing it.
3.3 Troubleshooting Stuck Handles
Sometimes, even with the setscrew loosened or the button depressed, the handle may refuse to budge. Here are some tips:
- Apply Gentle Pressure: Wiggle the handle from side to side while pulling. Avoid using excessive force.
- Lubricate the Handle Shaft: Apply a small amount of penetrating oil (like WD-40) to the handle shaft where it meets the door. Let it sit for a few minutes before trying to remove the handle again.
- Check for Hidden Screws: In rare cases, there may be a hidden screw securing the handle. Examine the entire handle assembly carefully.
4. Handling Rose Plates (Escutcheons)
The rose plate (or escutcheon) is the decorative piece that sits behind the handle. It’s removed after the handle itself has been taken off.
- Snap-On Plates: Gently pry these off using your fingers or a plastic prying tool. Avoid using metal tools that could scratch the door or plate.
- Screwed-On Plates: Locate the screws and remove them using the appropriate screwdriver.
- Threaded Plates: Some newer models may feature a threaded plate that unscrews from the door. Look for a textured edge that allows you to grip and rotate the plate.
5. Door Handle Removal – Helpful Tips
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Take Photos | Photograph each step as you dismantle the handle. This will be invaluable when reassembling. |
| Work Over a Towel | Place a towel on the floor to prevent scratches to the handle if it drops. |
| Don’t Force It | If something feels stuck, stop and reassess. Forcing it can cause damage. |
| Keep Screws Organized | Place all screws in a small container to prevent losing them. Label the container if necessary. |
| Consider Door Type | Hollow core doors may require extra care to avoid damaging the door while removing the handle mechanism. |
FAQs: Removing Lever Door Handles Quickly
Have questions about quickly removing your lever door handle? Here are some common inquiries to help you out.
What if the set screw is stripped?
If the set screw is stripped, try using a rubber band or steel wool between the Allen wrench and the screw for better grip. If that fails, you may need a screw extractor specifically designed to remove stripped screws to remove the lever door handle.
My door handle doesn’t have a visible set screw. How do I remove it?
Some lever door handles use a concealed set screw, often located on the underside of the handle near the base. Look closely for a small hole. You’ll likely need a very small Allen wrench or pin punch to access and loosen the screw to remove the lever door handle.
Can I reuse the lever door handle after removing it?
Yes, you can usually reuse the lever door handle. Ensure you keep all the parts together, including the set screw and any other hardware. When reinstalling, be careful not to overtighten the set screw, as this can damage it.
What tools are absolutely necessary to remove a lever door handle?
Typically, you’ll only need an Allen wrench or a small screwdriver, depending on the type of set screw used. Having a flashlight can be helpful for locating the set screw, and a small container to hold the parts is a good idea to avoid losing them while you remove the lever door handle.
And there you have it! Now you know how to remove lever door handle like a pro. Hopefully, this helped you out, and remember, always double-check those screws!