How to Remove a Door Knob with No Screws: A Step-by-Step Guide With Videos
Removing a door knob with no visible screws can be a daunting task, but it’s a necessary one when you need to replace or repair your doorknob. If you’re not sure how to remove a door knob without screws, don’t worry – it’s not as difficult as it may seem.
With the right tools and a little bit of know-how, you can easily remove your old doorknob and replace it with a new one.
The first step in removing a door knob without screws is to identify the type of doorknob you have. Some doorknobs are held in place with screws that are hidden by a cover plate, while others are held in place with a spring-loaded latch mechanism.
Once you know what type of doorknob you have, you can start preparing to remove it. This may involve gathering the necessary tools, such as a screwdriver, pliers, and a paperclip, and taking safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and eye protection.
Key Takeaways
5 Steps to Remove Door Knob without Screws
1. Locate a small hole at the neck of the knob. Inside this hole, there may be a small screw that needs to be unscrewed using an appropriate screwdriver. If there is no visible screw, a straightened paper clip can be inserted into the hole to help release the handle.
2. Carefully remove the handle using the correct size of screwdriver to avoid causing any damage to the hardware. It’s important to hold the door knob securely to prevent it from falling during this process.
3. Disconnect the cover plate. This can be achieved by using a screwdriver to gently separate the cover plate from the plate containing the hidden screws. Once loosened, the cover plate can be rotated counter-clockwise to release it, allowing access to the hidden screws.
4. Use an Allen wrench set to remove the hex-head screws now that all components are exposed. The appropriate wrench size should be selected to fit into the hole and remove all the screws. It’s important to maintain the hardware in good condition if it will be reused, or to prevent any damage if the door knob is being replaced or polished.
5. Remove the part of the door knob that is still attached to the door. This step is relatively straightforward, as the entire attachment should become loose once all the screws have been removed.
Identifying Your Door Knob Type
When it comes to removing a door knob with no screws, the first step is to identify the type of door knob you have. There are two main types of door knobs: those with hidden screws and those with screwless or snap-off rose covers.
With Hidden Screws
Some door knobs have hidden screws that are concealed by a decorative cover plate, also known as a rosette. To remove this type of door knob, you’ll need to locate the small slot or hole on the rosette.
This slot or hole is typically located on the side of the rosette that is closest to the door.
Once you’ve located the slot or hole, insert a small flathead screwdriver into it and gently pry the rosette away from the door. Be careful not to damage the door or the rosette in the process.
Once the rosette is removed, you should see the screws that hold the door knob in place.
Screwless or Snap-off Rose Cover
Other door knobs have screwless or snap-off rose covers that are designed to be easily removed. To remove this type of door knob, locate the small notch or groove on the edge of the rose cover.
Insert a flathead screwdriver into this notch or groove and gently pry the rose cover away from the door.
Once the rose cover is removed, you should see a small tab or button on the side of the door knob. Press this tab or button and pull the door knob away from the door. If the door knob is still difficult to remove, try wiggling it back and forth while pulling it away from the door.
Preparation and Safety
Before attempting to remove a door knob with no screws, it is important to gather the necessary tools and prepare the working area. This will ensure that the process is safe and efficient. In this section, we will discuss the necessary tools and steps to take to ensure a successful removal.
Gathering Necessary Tools
To remove a door knob with no screws, you will need a few tools. These include a flathead screwdriver, a Phillips screwdriver, and an Allen wrench. It is important to have these tools on hand before beginning the removal process.
A flathead screwdriver is used to pry off the cover plate on the door knob. A Phillips screwdriver is used to remove any screws that may be hidden underneath the cover plate. An Allen wrench is used to remove the set screw that holds the door knob in place.
Protecting Your Working Area
Before beginning the removal process, it is important to protect your working area. This will prevent any damage to the door or surrounding area.
To protect the door, place a towel or blanket underneath the door knob. This will prevent any scratches or dents from occurring. To protect the surrounding area, use painter’s tape to cover any nearby surfaces. This will prevent any accidental damage from occurring during the removal process.
Removing the Door Knob
Removing a door knob with no screws can be a challenging task. However, with the right tools and techniques, it can be done easily. The process involves locating the release mechanism and detaching the knob or handle. Here’s how to do it:
Locating the Release Mechanism
The first step in removing a door knob with no screws is to locate the release mechanism. In most cases, the release mechanism is a tiny hole or slot located on the shank of the knob or handle.
To locate the release mechanism, the user should inspect the knob or handle carefully. If there is no visible release mechanism, the user should refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Detaching the Knob or Handle
Once the release mechanism is located, the next step is to detach the knob or handle. To do this, the user should insert a paper clip or a similar tool into the release mechanism and press down.
This will release the knob or handle from the spindle. The user can then pull the knob or handle away from the door.
After detaching the knob or handle, the user should remove the latch from the door. This can be done by unscrewing the latch plate screws using a screwdriver. The user should then remove any remaining hardware, such as the strike plate, using a screwdriver.
Dismantling the Lockset
When removing a door knob with no screws, dismantling the lockset is the first step. This process involves removing the rose or cover plate and unscrewing the mounting plate. Here are the steps to follow:
Taking Off the Rose or Cover Plate
The rose or cover plate is the decorative piece that covers the mounting plate and hides the screws. To remove it, look for a small slot or hidden slot on the side of the knob.
Insert a flathead screwdriver into the slot and gently pry the rose or cover plate away from the door. Be careful not to damage the door or the rose in the process.
Unscrewing the Mounting Plate
Once the rose or cover plate is removed, you should be able to see the mounting plate. This is the piece that holds the knob in place.
Look for concealed screws on the mounting plate. If you can’t see any screws, look for a small slot or hidden slot on the side of the knob.
Insert a flathead screwdriver into the slot and turn it counterclockwise to release the knob.
Next, look for the mounting screws that hold the mounting plate in place. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the mounting screws and remove the mounting plate.
If the screws are concealed, look for a small slot or hidden slot on the side of the knob. Insert a flathead screwdriver into the slot and turn it counterclockwise to release the screws.
Handling the Latch Mechanism
When removing a door knob with no visible screws, it is important to understand how to handle the latch mechanism. The latch mechanism is the part of the door knob that keeps the door closed. It is located on the edge of the door and is held in place by the latch plate.
Removing the Latch Plate
To remove the latch plate, first, locate the screws that hold it in place. These screws are usually located on the edge of the door, opposite the latch mechanism.
Once you have located the screws, use a screwdriver to remove them.
If the screws are hidden, you may need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry off the latch plate. Insert the screwdriver between the latch plate and the door edge and gently pry it off. Be careful not to damage the latch mechanism or the door edge.
Extracting the Latch
Once you have removed the latch plate, you can extract the latch from the door. To do this, use a pair of pliers to grip the latch and pull it out of the door. Be careful not to damage the door or the latch mechanism.
If the latch is difficult to remove, you may need to use a screwdriver to push it out from the other side of the door. Insert the screwdriver into the hole on the latch mechanism and push it out.
Reinstalling or Replacing the Door Knob
Once the old door knob has been removed, it is time to either reinstall it or replace it with a new one. In this section, we will discuss the steps to follow for both options.
Choosing a Replacement
When choosing a replacement door knob, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Type of door: Make sure the door knob is compatible with the type of door you have. For example, some door knobs are designed specifically for interior doors, while others are suitable for exterior doors.
- Style: Consider the style of the door knob and how it will fit in with the overall décor of the room.
- Functionality: Choose a door knob that is easy to use and provides the necessary level of security.
- Size: Make sure the replacement door knob is the same size as the old one to ensure a proper fit.
Installation Process
Once you have chosen a replacement door knob, follow these steps to install it:
- Insert the latch assembly into the hole in the edge of the door. Make sure the latch is facing the correct direction.
- Place the exterior door knob over the latch assembly and align the screw holes.
- Insert the screws and tighten them with a screwdriver.
- Repeat the process with the interior door knob.
- Test the door knob to make sure it is functioning properly.
If you are reinstalling the old door knob, follow these steps:
- Insert the latch assembly into the hole in the edge of the door. Make sure the latch is facing the correct direction.
- Place the exterior door knob over the latch assembly and align the screw holes.
- Insert the screws and tighten them with a screwdriver.
- Repeat the process with the interior door knob.
- Test the door knob to make sure it is functioning properly.
In either case, it is important to make sure the door knob is securely fastened to the door. If the door knob is loose or wobbly, it may need to be tightened or adjusted.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dealing with a Stuck Knob
One of the most common issues when removing a door knob without visible screws is dealing with a stuck knob. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as rust, corrosion, or dirt buildup.
If the knob is stuck, the first step is to try and loosen it up before attempting to remove it.
One way to do this is to use a lubricant such as WD-40 or a silicone spray. Apply the lubricant to the base of the knob and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, try to turn the knob again.
If it still won’t budge, try using a pair of pliers to grip the knob and turn it while pulling it away from the door.
Another option is to use a hammer and a flathead screwdriver. Place the screwdriver in the gap between the knob and the rosette and gently tap it with the hammer. This should loosen the knob and allow you to remove it.
When to Call a Professional
While removing a door knob without visible screws can be a DIY project, there are times when it’s best to call a professional.
If you’re not comfortable with tools or don’t have experience with DIY projects, it’s best to leave it to a professional.
A locksmith is a good option if you’re having trouble removing the knob or if you need to replace the lock. They have the tools and expertise to handle the job quickly and efficiently.
If you’re not sure whether you should attempt the project yourself or call a professional, it’s always a good idea to do some research and weigh the pros and cons.
Remember, safety should always be your top priority, so if you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s best to call a professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Removing a door knob without visible screws may seem daunting, but it is quite simple.
First, check for a small slot or hole on the side of the knob. If present, insert a small flat-head screwdriver into the slot and twist it to release the knob.
If there is no slot or hole, try prying off the decorative cover plate with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingers. Once removed, you should see the screws that hold the knob in place.
Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws and the knob should come off easily.
Schlage door knobs are known for their durability and security, but they can be tricky to remove if there are no visible screws.
To remove a Schlage door knob without screws, locate the small slot on the side of the knob. Insert a small flat-head screwdriver into the slot and twist it to release the knob.
If there is no slot, look for a small hole on the shaft of the knob. Insert an Allen wrench into the hole and turn it to release the knob.
Once the knob is removed, you should see the screws that hold the latch plate in place. Remove the screws with a Phillips screwdriver and the latch plate should come off easily.
Old door knobs can be difficult to remove if they lack screw access.
To remove an old door knob without screws, first look for a small slot or hole on the side of the knob. If present, insert a small flat-head screwdriver into the slot and twist it to release the knob.
If there is no slot or hole, try prying off the decorative cover plate with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingers. Once removed, you should see the screws that hold the knob in place.
Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws and the knob should come off easily.
Yes, you can remove a lever door handle without screws.
First, locate the small slot or hole on the side of the handle. If present, insert a small flat-head screwdriver into the slot and twist it to release the handle.
If there is no slot or hole, try prying off the decorative cover plate with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingers. Once removed, you should see the screws that hold the handle in place.
Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws and the handle should come off easily.
If a door knob has a small hole on the side, you can remove it by inserting an Allen wrench into the hole and turning it to release the knob.
Once the knob is removed, you should see the screws that hold the latch plate in place. Remove the screws with a Phillips screwdriver and the latch plate should come off easily.
Dismantling a door knob from the outside when there are no screws present can be tricky, but it is possible.
Look for a small slot or hole on the side of the knob. If present, insert a small flat-head screwdriver into the slot and twist it to release the knob.
If there is no slot or hole, try prying off the decorative cover plate with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingers. Once removed, you should see the screws that hold the knob in place.
Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws and the knob should come off easily.
Hello, I’m Keith Jones. I’m the author and head of content here of door and window guide. I’ve been in the window and door industry for over 10 years in the UK and North America. I’ve had quite a few roles during my career mainly in Worldwide sales. I’m now semi retired so I thought I’d put my knowledge to good use educating people about all they might need to know about door and window related topics.
