How to Remove an Outside Doorknob

Remove the inside doorknob to remove the outside doorknob.

Re-keying or replacing doorknobs is one project that most homeowners can do themselves. Before you can re-key a doorknob, however, you must remove the outside doorknob from the door. The inside and outside doorknobs usually secure together with two screws. The screws go through the inside doorknob cover and into sleeves on the inside of the outer doorknob. Most doorknobs require removing the inner doorknob to remove the outside doorknob.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Paper clip

Instructions

Exterior Doors

1. Open the exterior door to gain access to both the outside and inside doorknob. Remove the two screws on the inside door that secure the two knobs together. Turn the screws counterclockwise with a Phillips-head screwdriver.

2. Hold the outside doorknob with one hand, and remove the inside doorknob from the door with your other hand.

3. Pull the outside doorknob away from the door.

Interior Doors

1. Locate the small hole on the neck of the doorknob between the knob and the cover plate on the door.

2. Bend a paperclip straight, and insert one end of the paperclip into the hole. Press the paperclip inside the hole to disengage the small retaining pin.

3. Pull the doorknob away from the door, and pull the paperclip out of the doorknob.

Tips & Warnings

• You can remove some exterior doorknobs using the process for the interior doors.

References

• True Value: Installing a Doorknob
• Bob Vila: How to Replace a Lockset
• True Value: Replace a Doorknob