How to Repair a Door Nob
Door knob problems are quite common when the door knob has been used over an extended period of time. Some problems are simple such as loose screws or a misalignment. Some can be more involved and may require replacing the whole door knob. Here are several ways to repair a door knob depending on the problem. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Repairing a Door Knob
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1
If the door latch does not operate smoothly, the cause may be that the bolt on the door is not lining up properly with the strike plate. Close the door slowly and look to see where the bolt is touching the strike plate. Sometimes there are marks already on the strike plate showing this misalignment.
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2
To tighten a door knob, loosen the screw on the door knob shank or stem. Hold the knob on the other side of the door firmly while turning the loose knob clockwise until it is tight. Now tighten the screw on the door knob shank or stem.
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3
If that did not work, readjust the strike plate. Check to see where the bolt is hitting the strike plate. Loosen the screws on the strike plate and move the plate up or down until the bolt slides in easily and then tighten the screws.
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4
If the bolt does not reach the strike plate, remove the screws to the strike plate, remove the plate and shim it by adding a piece of cardboard behind it. It is necessary that the cardboard is cut out to the shape of the plate and its opening. Screw the strike plate back in place.
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If the strike plate has to be moved either up or down, remove the strike plate and carve out the wood so that the plate fits into the door jamb in its new place. The wood in the hole of the strike plate also needs to be carved out. Replace the strike plate and fill the gap at the top or bottom with putty.
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Try to realign the door. Loosen the screws in each hinge. Hold the door up to the door jamb and re-tighten the screws on all of the hinges.
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7
If the door knob has been removed and the spindles are worn, it will be necessary to replace the entire door knob. Make sure to take the door knob with you when purchasing a new one, so that you will get a knob that fits.
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Tips & Warnings
Try each step before replacing a door knob.
Resources
- Photo Credit by drcorneilus
