What To Know
- Hold the chisel at a 45-degree angle and gently tap it with a hammer to remove the wood within the rectangle.
- Place the other half of the doorknob on the opposite side of the door and tighten the screws to secure it.
- If necessary, use a screwdriver to adjust the strike plate on the door frame to ensure the latch engages properly.
Drilling new door knob holes can seem like an intimidating task, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s a project that any DIY enthusiast can tackle. Whether you’re replacing a damaged doorknob or installing a new one, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process step-by-step.
Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:
- Drill
- 1-3/8 inch hole saw
- 2-1/8 inch hole saw
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Level
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Screwdriver
- New doorknob and latch assembly
Measuring and Marking
1. Measure the door thickness: Determine the thickness of the door to ensure you choose the correct size hole saws.
2. Mark the hole location: Measure 36 inches from the floor to mark the center of the doorknob hole. Use a level to ensure the mark is horizontal.
3. Mark the latch hole location: Measure 2-3/8 inches from the edge of the door to mark the center of the latch hole. Again, use a level to ensure the mark is vertical.
Drilling the Holes
1. Drill the doorknob hole: Insert the 1-3/8 inch hole saw into the drill and align it with the marked location. Drill through the door, applying firm pressure.
2. Drill the latch hole: Switch to the 2-1/8 inch hole saw and drill through the door at the marked location.
Chiseling the Latch Pocket
1. Outline the latch pocket: Use a chisel to score a rectangle around the latch hole, extending about 1 inch in all directions.
2. Chisel out the pocket: Hold the chisel at a 45-degree angle and gently tap it with a hammer to remove the wood within the rectangle. Continue until the pocket is deep enough to accommodate the latch assembly.
Installing the Latch Assembly
1. Insert the latch: Place the latch assembly into the pocket and secure it with the screws provided.
2. Test the latch: Open and close the door to ensure the latch operates smoothly.
Installing the Doorknob
1. Insert the doorknob: Align the doorknob with the hole and insert it through the door.
2. Secure the doorknob: Place the other half of the doorknob on the opposite side of the door and tighten the screws to secure it.
3. Test the doorknob: Turn the doorknob to ensure it operates smoothly and locks properly.
Finishing Touches
1. Check the alignment: Stand on one side of the door and check that the doorknob and latch are aligned when the door is closed.
2. Adjust as needed: If necessary, use a screwdriver to adjust the strike plate on the door frame to ensure the latch engages properly.
3. Clean up: Remove any sawdust or debris from the door and surrounding area.
Wrapping Up
Congratulations! You have successfully drilled new door knob holes and installed a new doorknob. By following these step-by-step instructions and using the proper tools, you have completed a project that will improve the functionality and style of your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I drill new door knob holes in any type of door?
A: Yes, but the process may vary slightly depending on the material and thickness of the door.
Q: What if the door is too thick for my hole saws?
A: You can use a spade bit to drill a smaller hole and then enlarge it with the hole saws.
Q: How do I know if I drilled the holes in the correct location?
A: Measure carefully and use a level to ensure the marks are accurate. You can also insert the doorknob and latch assembly into the holes to check the fit before drilling completely.
Q: What should I do if the latch doesn‘t engage properly?
A: Adjust the strike plate on the door frame to ensure the latch aligns correctly when the door is closed.
Q: Can I paint or stain the new doorknob?
A: Yes, but make sure to use a product specifically designed for metal finishes.
