Knock, knock—it’s time for a change
Whether you want to make your door more secure or simply update its look, changing out a door knob is a straightforward task that requires minimal tools and time–but still has a big impact. Whether you’re upgrading the hardware on an interior or exterior door, you can use this guide on how to change a door knob to finish the task in just 15 to 30 minutes. Plus, you’ll save between $50 and $100 over having a professional do the work for you.
The cost to change a doorknob depends on the type and quality of the doorknob and whether you hire a professional. Basic doorknobs can cost between $10 to $30, while more decorative or higher security options can range from $50 to $300. If you hire a professional, labor costs vary, depending on the complexity of the job and local rates.
Replacing a door knob is a pretty straightforward process that shouldn’t give you much trouble at all. If you’re working with a modern door and buy a standard-size door knob as a replacement, you can get this done with minimal tools and little to no experience.
There are some cases where you might want to call in a professional, though. For example, if you’re working with an older or antique door, and you find that the strike plate or latch assembly aren’t the same size and shape as the new ones, chiseling out a space to install them could prove to be difficult or intimidating.
You might also want to consider hiring a locksmith near you to replace your door knob if you’re upgrading the hardware on an exterior door, as security is always a concern with improperly installed door knobs. Finally, installing smart door knobs can be much more challenging, especially if you need to wire them, so consider calling in a pro for any more complicated work like this.
Deirdre Sullivan contributed to this article.
Most modern door knobs will all fit in standard, modern doors, so if you know your door was made in the last 50 years or so, you should be fine buying a standard replacement door knob. The only exception would be a thumb latch handleset for an exterior door, as this type of door knob may not fit your door without drilling a mounting hole for the bottom of the handle. Antique or custom doors might also have different sizes and knob mounting holes, so call in a professional if you don’t believe your door is a standard one.
Most homeowners, even those without extensive DIY experience, should be able to replace an interior door knob in about 15 minutes, while it could take up to 30 minutes or so to replace an exterior door knob and deadbolt set. Your project might take longer if you need to drill additional mounting holes for thumb latch handles or if you need to chisel out a new shape for your strike plate or strike assembly.
New door knobs likely won’t have much of an effect on property value, but they can improve your home’s curb appeal and interior decor, which might lead some buyers to offer more for your home. However, in terms of personal value, adding new door knobs can be a game changer. New door knobs not only function better than older ones in most cases, but they make your home secure, and there’s a lot to be said about the peace of mind a new exterior door knob can provide.
