How to Replace a Latch

The latch is what holds the door closed.

Door knobs are simple pieces of hardware many homeowners install on their own. The typical door knob comes in three parts; the two knobs and the latch. The latch is installed before the door knobs. The door knobs are then placed through the latch. When the knobs are turned, the latch is pulled into the door. Normally, if you need to replace the latch, you replace the entire door knob. However, you might have decorative door knobs you do not want to replace. If that's the case, and the latch is broken, you can simply replace the old latch for a new one.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Unscrew the two screws holding the door knobs in place. The screws are located on the door's inner side, in the faceplate. Grasp one door knob in each hand and pull them away from the door.

2. Use a screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the latch's faceplate to the door's edge. Pull the old latch out of the door.

3. Slide the new latch in place. The latch's straight edge faces away from the room while the curved edge faces the room. Secure the latch in place with the supplied screws.

4. Slide the door knob with the prongs through the latch. Attach the second door knob to the prong. Push both door knobs together until they are tight with the door. Secure them in place with the screws you removed in Step 1.

References

• Hammer Zone: Installing a Door Knob
• Easy Home Improvement Projects: How to Install Door Knobs