When we installed our new front door this summer, we obviously needed a new doorknob as well. This was the part of the installation that I was dreading the most, because it has to be precise. So, I called for help. My dad is patient and doesn’t mind tinkering with things, so he was the perfect one to help…or basically to do it for me while I watched and learned.
I picked out the Kwikset Signature Series Arlington Handleset in Polished Brass from True Value
We started by laying the pieces out and looked over the instructions to get our bearings. There are a lot of pieces and it can seem overwhelming, so take it slow and steady.
The instructions, unfortunately, are for more than one model of knob, so there are several different templates and exceptions on the instructions depending on the one you’re installing. I know that is to save costs, but you have to check and double check that you’re using the proper templates and following the right points on the instructions. It’s not a bad idea to have someone looking over your shoulder, because once you start drilling holes in your door, you’re committed!
Once we determined the proper template to use, we lined it up with where we wanted the deadbolt and handle latch to hit the door frame and taped it to the door.
My dad first drilled a pilot hole where indicated on the template to act as a center point for the larger hole drilled to accommodate the door knob. He used a forstner bit to drill the hole and then repeated those steps to drill the smaller hole on the side of the door for the locking mechanism.
He traced the brass piece that reinforces the side of the door and chiseled out a space for it, so it sits flush in the door.
He then followed the instructions to assemble the doorknob on the door.
We were able to adjust the original door frame to accommodate the new housing when the deadbolt is latched.
And we tested it out to make sure everything lined up. It took a little tweaking here and there, but we got it to fit perfectly and it works like a charm.
One note about installing a doorknob on a wood door. The door will swell and shrink as the climate and humidity changes through the year, so it may need to be tightened a few months down the road. We installed the knob in the summer and needed to tighten it this winter.
For more tips and inspiration on weekend projects, stop by your local True Value for advice or visit them on Facebook and Pinterest.
I was one of the bloggers selected by True Value to work on the DIY Squad. I have been compensated for my time commitment to the program as well as my writing about my experience. I have also been compensated for the materials needed for my DIY project. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.
10 Responses
Dear Marian….I learned something earlier this morning, when I was ‘yelling’ at a couple of rude posts. As a grown woman, I know the power of our words…whether spoken or written. I responded to their posts with many words in caps (yelling), while you extended such graciousness in your reply to them. Made me stop and realize how my response to them was no better than theirs to your post. I do apologize. Now, I also want to say how wonderful it always, always is, to be scrolling through your news feed on fb, and see that you have posted something new! I am like so many, who always check yours first….get my cup of coffee in the morning, and go to MMS. It is exciting, it is fun, and you have a treasure chest full of ideas, inspiration, diy’s that I truly look forward to. Every. Single. Day. Thank you for this, and for the gentle reminder (you did not chastise us!) of responding appropriately in all situations. You’re a true sweetheart!
Wow, that does look like it needs to be precise! I remember when we bought our house my husband changed the locks and there was some near cursing involved. And we didn’t have anything that complicated!
http://jax-and-jewels.blogspot.com
Any tips on how to make those old glass knobs (and innards) stay together after many, many years of use? Our door knobs are always coming apart! I put them back together and they stay for a day or two then poof falling out each side of the door again. 🙂
Maybe the screws are stripped. I had a door knob on my front door that was like that but the fellow who fixed it got one from an old house he tore down that must have not gotten the use mine did. Maybe you could find something at Habitat for Humanity.
Looks like everyone in your family is a DIY person! 🙂
Your dad did a great job with the door hardware.
Oh my….this is way over my head! I would never attempt this or help my hubby. He is a brainiac and can do most anything! Kudos to your dad for a job well done!
It’s a lovely handle and I have a similar door handle on my doors. I’ve decided the next handle I purchase will be a digital entry code and will also put in a longer brass strike plate to give added security.
A Deputy Sheriff said it was best not to have a twist lock if one has glass windows on either side of the door. It’s easy for a crook to break a window, reach in and unlock the door. Now I know -wry smile-.
My heart started pounding when I saw the photo of all those pieces for the door handle. Who would have thought a door knob would have so many parts. Your dad did a fabulous job. The door handle is beautiful but your dad is the star of the post!.
~willa~
Can I borrow your dad?!! I have an old house and thought I’d replace all the doors with new knobs – all 12 of them. So I bought these great brass Schlages. Thought it would be a slam dunk project … twenty years later, they sit in their packages! As your instructions prove, not an easy task to install. Guess I should just put them on craigslist. Thanks for the reminder. And kudos to your dad.
What a blessing to have your dad at hand for tinkering.
🙂
Julie M.