Is Your Old Door Handle an Eyesore? Don't Waste Money on a Pro! Here’s How to Replace Your Exterior Door Handles Yourself
Created on 07.11
Is Your Old Door Handle an Eyesore? Don't Waste Money on a Pro! Here’s How to Replace Your Exterior Door Handles Yourself
Do you come home every day, look at that faded, outdated front
door handle, and feel like it’s dragging down your home’s entire vibe? You’re not alone! Let’s be honest, your front door handle is like your home’s handshake—it sets the first impression.
But the thought of replacing it probably brings on a headache. Hire a contractor? Too expensive! Do it yourself? You’re afraid you’ll mess it up. Don’t worry, that’s exactly why you’re reading this. I promise that by the end of this guide, you’ll be able to confidently choose and install a beautiful, secure door handle for your front door, giving your entryway a major facelift. Trust me, this is one of the most satisfying DIY projects you’ll ever tackle!
In the guide below, we’re going to walk through:
- Getting a handle on a few key terms so you sound like a pro.
- How to choose the perfect Exterior Door Handles for your home.
- A complete, foolproof, step-by-step guide for your front door handle replacement.
- Troubleshooting common issues and a super helpful FAQ section.
Ready to get started? Let’s do this!
Part 1: First Things First: Getting to Know the Lingo & Basics
Before you rush off to the hardware store, let’s spend a few minutes breaking down some key terms in plain English. This part is crucial—it’ll help you avoid the frustration of buying the wrong hardware.
Backset
This sounds technical, but it’s incredibly simple. The backset is just the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the large hole drilled for the handle.1
Why does this matter so much? Because if you get it wrong, the new latch will either be too short to reach the door frame or too long to fit. The two most common backset sizes for residential doors are 2-3/8 inches (about 60mm) and 2-3/4 inches (about 70mm).2
Before you do anything else, grab a tape measure and check this distance on your current handle. The good news is, many new door handle sets for the front door come with an adjustable latch that fits both sizes, which seriously reduces the risk of making a mistake.
Bore Hole & Center-to-Center Spacing
The Bore Hole is the large circular hole drilled through the face of your door, typically 2-1/8 inches in diameter, where the handle itself is installed.3
If you’re planning to install a handleset—the kind with a separate deadbolt on top and a large handle below—you also need to know the Center-to-Center Spacing. This is the vertical distance from the center of the top deadbolt hole to the center of the bottom handle hole. The standard measurement for this is usually 5-1/2 inches. Measuring this ensures your new handleset will fit the existing holes perfectly, no new drilling required.
Main Types of Door Handles
Exterior door handles generally come in three main styles:
- Handlesets:
These are the most dramatic and impressive options. They typically consist of a separate deadbolt and a large lower handle with a thumb latch, sometimes mounted on a single decorative plate. They instantly add a touch of class to your entryway.
- Levers:
These handles feature a lever or "handle" that you push down to open.4 They’re fantastic for
accessibility—if your hands are full, you can easily open the door with an elbow.
- Knobs:
This is the classic, most common style featuring a round knob. The design is simple, the function is direct, and it blends well with almost any home style.
Part 2: How to Choose the Perfect Exterior Door Handles
Okay, now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s get to the fun part: picking out your dream lock. This is about more than just looks; it’s about your family’s security and your lifestyle.
Security is Non-Negotiable: Understanding ANSI Grades
On the packaging of high-quality locks, you’ll likely see a label that says "ANSI Grade 1, 2, or 3." What does that mean? In short, it’s a security and durability rating certified by the
American National Standards Institute (ANSI), like a report card for your lock.
- Grade 3:
This is the basic standard for residential use. It’s tested to withstand 200,000 opening/closing cycles and a certain amount of force. For most homes, this is a decent, acceptable choice.
- Grade 2:
This is the "better" option, considered "heavy-duty" for residential use. It can handle double the cycles (400,000) and significantly more force. If you’re looking for stronger protection for your front door, I highly recommend choosing at least a Grade 2 lock.
- Grade 1:
This is the "best" and highest level, meeting commercial building standards. It can endure over 800,000 cycles and withstand very strong impacts. If home security is your absolute top priority, choosing Grade 1 secure door handles will give you ultimate peace of mind.
One critical reminder: a top-tier lock needs a strong door and frame to do its job. Installing a Grade 1 lock on a flimsy, hollow-core door is like putting a bank vault lock on a cardboard box—it doesn’t make much sense. So, as you think about an upgrade door hardware project, don't forget to assess the strength of your entire door system. This is one of the most important home security tips.
Style & Material: The Finishing Touch for Your Home's Curb Appeal
The material and finish of your door handle determine its look and durability. Here are some popular choices:
Materials:
- Stainless Steel:Modern, durable, and rust-proof, making it perfect for outdoor use.5
- Brass:Classic and elegant. For outdoor use, look for polished brass with a protective coating to prevent tarnishing.
- Zinc Alloy:Exceptionally strong, corrosion-resistant, and can be finished in a wide variety of colors.
Finishes:
- Matte Black:
Modern, minimalist, and incredibly stylish—a huge trend right now.6
- Satin/Brushed Nickel:
A textured, silver appearance that does a great job of hiding fingerprints and matches almost anything.
- Oil-Rubbed Bronze:
This is a "living finish," which means it’s designed to change over time. With use, the underlying copper tones will start to show through, creating a unique, vintage patina. If you love hardware that tells a story, this one’s for you!
The Great Debate: Traditional Key vs. Keyless Smart Lock
This is the choice many homeowners face today. Do you want the proven reliability of a traditional key or the ultimate convenience of a keyless entry door handle? Let’s break it down with a clear comparison table.
Feature | Traditional Keyed Lock | Keyless Entry Door Handle (Smart Lock) |
Convenience | Simple and reliable; a time-tested method. | This is a total game-changer! Never worry about losing or forgetting keys again. You can grant remote access to friends or delivery people. |
Power Dependency | Completely independent of power. Works even during a blackout. | Requires batteries to operate. You could get locked out if the battery dies (though there's usually a backup). |
Security | No digital risk of being hacked. However, keys can be lost or copied. | Often includes advanced features like entry logs and tamper alarms. But there is a theoretical risk of being hacked. |
Cost | Lower initial purchase cost. | Higher initial purchase cost for the hardware. |
Access Control | You must physically hand over a key to grant access. | You can create temporary access codes for family, visitors, or service workers anytime, from anywhere, using a smartphone app. |
Now that you've weighed the pros and cons, you should have a better idea of what works for you. When you're ready to explore different styles and functions, you can check out the wide range of
Exterior Door Handles offered by Cangolock; their product line is very extensive and a great place to see these options in person.
Part 3: The Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install Exterior Door Handle Sets
Alright, you’re armed with knowledge. It’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work! This section is your complete guide on how to install exterior door handle sets. Don’t be nervous—just follow my steps, and you’ll see it’s much easier than you think.
1. Get Your Tools Ready
Before you start taking anything apart, gather all your tools and the parts of your new lockset. You’ll typically need a
Phillips head screwdriver, a flathead screwdriver, a tape measure, and your new door handle kit. Lay out all the new parts to make sure nothing is missing.
2. Remove the Old Handle
Let’s say goodbye to the old hardware. The mounting screws are usually on the interior side of the handle. Unscrew them, and you should be able to pull off both the interior and exterior handles. Next, go to the edge of the door and remove the screws holding the latch and deadbolt in place, then slide them out.
3. Install the New Latch and Deadbolt
Slide the new latch and deadbolt into the holes on the edge of the door. Here’s a crucial detail: make sure the beveled (angled) side of the latch faces the direction the door closes (toward the door jamb). This allows the door to close smoothly. Secure them with the provided screws.
4. Install the Exterior Handle
From the outside of the door, insert the exterior handle (the side with the keyhole) through the bore hole, making sure the spindle (the metal bar in the middle) fits correctly into the square hole in the latch mechanism.
5. Install the Interior Handle
Align the interior handle with the mounting posts coming through from the exterior side, and attach the screws. Don’t tighten the screws all the way just yet! Leave them a little loose for testing.
Pro-Tip: Before you tighten everything down, open and close the door a few times. Test the key and the interior thumbturn. Make sure the latch and deadbolt extend and retract smoothly. Spending 30 seconds on this now can save you from the massive frustration of having to take it all apart again later.
6. Install the Strike Plates on the Door Frame
Unscrew the old metal strike plates from the door frame and replace them with the new ones. For maximum security, use the long screws included in the kit when installing the deadbolt’s strike plate. These screws are long enough to anchor directly into the wall stud behind the frame, which dramatically increases its resistance to being kicked in.
7. Final Check and Tightening
Now that you’ve confirmed everything works perfectly, go ahead and securely tighten all the screws on the interior and exterior handles. Test it one last time. Congratulations, you just completed your front door handle replacement!
Part 4: Troubleshooting Common Post-Installation Problems
Sometimes, even when you follow the steps perfectly, you might run into a small issue. Don’t get discouraged—it’s completely normal! This table will help you quickly diagnose and fix any problems.
Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
Key is stiff or hard to turn | 1. The lock cylinder is slightly misaligned, causing friction in the internal parts. 2. The new lock needs a bit of lubrication. | 1. Loosen the mounting screws slightly, gently wiggle the entire lock assembly to let it self-center, then tighten the screws evenly. 2. Spray a small amount of graphite or silicone-based lubricant into the keyhole (never use cooking oil!). |
Handle is loose | The mounting screws on the interior handle weren’t fully tightened or have loosened with use. | Find the set screws on the interior handle or under the decorative cover plate and tighten them with the appropriate screwdriver. |
Latch hits the strike plate and won't engage | The latch and the strike plate on the door frame are not perfectly aligned. This can be due to the door settling or a tiny installation error. | 1. First, check and tighten the screws on the door’s hinges; sometimes a sagging door is the culprit. 2. Loosen the strike plate screws, move it slightly up or down until the latch engages smoothly, then re-tighten the screws. |
The entire lock cylinder turns with the key | The set screw(s) holding the cylinder in place is loose or broken. | This usually requires removing the interior plate to access the set screws that hold the cylinder. Tighten them firmly. If a screw is damaged, it will need to be replaced. |
An Inspiring Conclusion
Take a look at what you’ve accomplished! You didn’t just replace a door handle; you gave your home a meaningful upgrade with your own two hands. Now, your entryway not only looks better, but it’s also more secure.
Every time you touch this new, solid door handle, remember that feeling of pride and accomplishment. This small DIY project is proof that you are more than capable of making your home a better, safer place. Cheers to your hard work and your fantastic results!
Frequently Asked Questions About Replacing Exterior Door Handles
I bet you might still have a few questions. No problem—I’ve put together the most common ones right here:
Will I need to drill new holes in my door for the new handle?
Probably not! As long as you correctly measured the "backset" and "center-to-center spacing" we talked about earlier, the new door handle sets for the front door you buy should fit your existing holes perfectly. This is why those initial measurements are so important.
What is an ANSI security grade, and which one should I choose?
In simple terms, it’s a security rating for the lock. Grade 3 is basic residential, Grade 2 is enhanced, and Grade 1 is maximum security. For your front door, I strongly recommend choosing at least a Grade 2 or Grade 1 secure door handle. They offer an excellent balance of security and price. This is one of the most worthwhile home security tips to invest in.
How do I maintain my new door handle to keep it looking new?
Maintenance is easy! For most finishes (like nickel, chrome, or matte black), just wipe it down periodically with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap, then dry it thoroughly. Never use harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive scrub pads, as they will destroy the protective finish. For extra protection, you can apply a thin coat of carnauba car wax once a year to keep it shining.
What happens if my smart lock battery dies? Will I be locked out?
Absolutely not, so don’t worry! First, most smart locks will give you low-battery warnings for weeks via an app or an indicator light before they completely die. 7Even if you ignore all the warnings, almost every keyless entry door handle has a traditional keyhole as a backup. Some models even have external terminals where you can temporarily power the lock with a 9V battery to get inside. You will not be left stranded.
Can I use an interior door handle on an exterior door?
I would strongly advise against it. Interior door handles are not built to withstand rain, sun, and temperature changes; their finishes and internal mechanisms will corrode and fail quickly. More importantly, they lack the essential security features required for an exterior door. For both security and durability, always choose dedicated exterior hardware.
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