Removing a stubborn door lever can be a challenging task, but with the right approach and tools, it can be accomplished efficiently. As a door levers supplier, I've encountered various situations where customers have faced difficulties in removing old or stubborn door levers. In this blog, I'll share some practical steps and tips on how to tackle this issue.
Understanding the Door Lever Mechanism
Before you start the removal process, it's essential to understand the type of door lever you're dealing with. There are different types of door levers, including mortise levers, cylindrical levers, and passage levers. Each type has its own unique installation and removal process.
Mortise levers are commonly used on exterior doors and are more complex to install and remove. They require a mortise lockset, which is a type of lock that is installed into a pocket in the edge of the door. Cylindrical levers, on the other hand, are simpler and are often used on interior doors. Passage levers are used for doors that don't require locking, such as closet doors.
Tools You'll Need
To remove a stubborn door lever, you'll need a few basic tools. Here's a list of tools that you might find useful:
- Screwdriver: Depending on the type of screws used to secure the door lever, you'll need either a Phillips or flathead screwdriver.
- Allen wrench: Some door levers are secured with Allen screws, so having an Allen wrench set is essential.
- Pliers: Pliers can be useful for gripping and pulling out stubborn screws or pins.
- Hammer: In some cases, you might need a hammer to gently tap the door lever to loosen it.
- Putty knife: A putty knife can be used to pry off any decorative caps or covers that are hiding the screws.
Step-by-Step Removal Process
Now that you have the necessary tools and understand the door lever mechanism, let's dive into the step-by-step removal process.
Step 1: Locate the Screws
The first step is to locate the screws that are holding the door lever in place. In most cases, the screws are located on the interior side of the door, near the base of the lever. However, some door levers might have hidden screws that are covered by decorative caps or covers. If you can't find the screws, use a putty knife to gently pry off any caps or covers.
Step 2: Remove the Screws
Once you've located the screws, use the appropriate screwdriver or Allen wrench to remove them. Make sure to keep the screws in a safe place, as you'll need them when installing the new door lever. If the screws are stubborn and won't come out, try using pliers to grip the screw head and turn it counterclockwise. If the screw is stripped, you might need to use a screw extractor to remove it.
Step 3: Separate the Lever from the Door
After removing the screws, the door lever should be loose. However, in some cases, the lever might be stuck due to rust or debris. If this is the case, use a hammer to gently tap the lever to loosen it. You can also try using a lubricant, such as WD-40, to loosen the lever. Once the lever is loose, pull it away from the door.
Step 4: Remove the Rose Plate (if applicable)
Some door levers have a rose plate, which is a decorative plate that covers the hole in the door where the lever is installed. If your door lever has a rose plate, you'll need to remove it before you can install the new lever. To remove the rose plate, look for any screws or pins that are holding it in place. Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the screws or pins, and then gently pull the rose plate away from the door.
Step 5: Clean the Door and Prepare for Installation
Once you've removed the old door lever and rose plate (if applicable), use a clean cloth to wipe down the door and remove any dirt or debris. This will ensure that the new door lever installs smoothly. If there are any rough edges or burrs on the door, use a sandpaper to smooth them out.
Tips for Removing Stubborn Door Levers
- Use the Right Tools: Using the right tools is essential for removing a stubborn door lever. Make sure to use the appropriate screwdriver or Allen wrench for the screws, and don't be afraid to use pliers or a hammer if necessary.
- Be Patient: Removing a stubborn door lever can take time, especially if the screws are rusted or stripped. Don't rush the process, and take your time to ensure that you don't damage the door or the lever.
- Lubricate the Screws: If the screws are stubborn, try using a lubricant, such as WD-40, to loosen them. Spray the lubricant on the screws and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to remove them.
- Seek Professional Help: If you're having trouble removing the door lever or if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A locksmith or a handyman can remove the door lever for you and ensure that it's installed correctly.
Conclusion
Removing a stubborn door lever can be a challenging task, but with the right approach and tools, it can be accomplished efficiently. By following the steps outlined in this blog and using the tips provided, you should be able to remove the old door lever and prepare the door for the installation of a new one.
If you're in the market for new door levers, we offer a wide range of high-quality products to suit your needs. Check out our Contemporary Door Hardware, Barn Style Door Handles, and Low Profile Barn Door Hardware for more options.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help you find the perfect door levers for your home or business.
References
- "How to Remove a Door Lever." Family Handyman, https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/how-to-remove-a-door-lever/.
- "Removing a Door Knob or Lever." This Old House, https://www.thisoldhouse.com/doors/21014817/removing-a-door-knob-or-lever.
