How To Take Off A Locked Door Knob

How to Take Off a Locked Door Knob: A Step-by-Step Guide

Removing a locked doorknob might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little patience, it's a manageable task. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for various doorknob types, covering everything from identifying the type of knob to safely removing it without causing damage. This will help you regain access to your home or fix a malfunctioning doorknob.

Understanding Your Door Knob: Before you begin, it's crucial to identify the type of doorknob you have. This will determine the specific steps you need to follow. Common types include:

• Standard Door Knobs: These are the most common type, usually featuring a round knob on both sides of the door.
• Passage Door Knobs: These knobs don't lock and are typically found on interior doors.
• Privacy Door Knobs: These knobs have a locking mechanism on one side but lack a keyhole.
• Deadbolt Locks: These are separate from doorknobs and require a key to unlock.

Tools You'll Need:

• Screwdriver: You'll likely need both a Phillips head and a flathead screwdriver, depending on your door knob's screws.
• Pliers: These can be helpful for removing stubborn screws or components.
• Pencil or Marker: Useful for marking screw locations before removing them.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

This guide primarily focuses on removing standard and privacy doorknobs. Deadbolts require a slightly different approach and are often best tackled by a locksmith.

1. Locate the Screws: Carefully examine the doorknob's faceplate. Screws are typically located on the edges of the faceplate or under small decorative caps. You might need to use a small flathead screwdriver to pry off these caps if necessary. Mark the screw locations with a pencil to ensure you reinstall the doorknob correctly later.

2. Remove the Screws: Gently unscrew and remove all screws using the appropriate screwdriver. Be cautious not to strip the screws.

3. Separate the Knob: Once the screws are removed, the knob should separate into two parts: the interior and exterior knobs. On some knobs, gently pulling on the knobs themselves might be all that’s needed. However, if they resist, gently rocking them back and forth can help loosen them.

4. Remove the Latch: With the knobs separated, you'll likely find a latch bolt mechanism inside the door. This is the part that extends and retracts into the door frame. Usually, you can access screws securing the latch plate by removing the interior knob. Remove these screws and carefully pull out the latch.

5. Remove the Strike Plate: On the doorjamb (the frame), you'll find a strike plate which aligns with the latch. Remove the screws holding this plate in place. This is often the final step to completely removing the doorknob assembly.

Troubleshooting:

• Stripped Screws: If a screw is stripped, try using pliers to grip and remove it carefully. In extreme cases, you might need to drill out the screw.
• Stubborn Knobs: If the knobs are stuck, try applying some penetrating oil to the mechanisms before attempting to remove them again.

Reinstallation:

Reinstalling the doorknob is essentially the reverse of the removal process. Make sure the latch bolt is properly aligned with the strike plate before tightening the screws.

When to Call a Locksmith:

While this guide offers a general approach, it's always best to call a professional locksmith if:

• You're uncomfortable working with tools or unsure about any step.
• Your door knob is severely damaged or malfunctioning.
• You suspect a security issue.

By following these steps carefully, you should be able to successfully remove your locked doorknob. Remember to take your time, be cautious, and don't hesitate to seek professional assistance if needed.