Installing a door handle on a door that already has the holes is a short job: fit the latch into the door edge, pass the spindle through, attach the handles and screw them in place. Doors without holes need careful marking and boring, which takes a little more skill and the right bits.
What You Need
- The handle set, including latch, spindle, handles, screws and strike plate.
- Screwdrivers that fit the screw heads.
- Pencil, tape measure and a chisel if the latch plate needs a recess.
- For a new door: a hole saw, a spade bit, a drill and a template if one is supplied.
Steps for a Pre-Drilled Door
- Read the instructions. Handle sets vary, and the maker’s sheet will show the correct order.
- Check the hole sizes. The main hole through the door face and the smaller hole in the edge should match the latch.
- Fit the latch. Slide the latch into the edge hole with the angled side facing the direction the door closes. Mark around the plate, then, if it must sit flush, cut a shallow recess with a sharp chisel.
- Screw the latch plate into place.
- Insert the spindle. Pass it through the latch, and fit one handle on each side.
- Attach the handles. Fit the rose plates and tighten the fixing screws gently.
- Fit the strike plate. Close the door lightly to mark where the latch meets the frame, then cut a recess and screw the plate in.
- Test. Operate the handle several times, then close the door and check it latches with a light push.
If the Door Needs New Holes
Measure the height used by the other doors in the home, mark the centre of the main hole and use the maker’s template. Drill the face hole with a hole saw from one side until the point shows through, then finish from the other side to avoid splintering. Bore the edge hole straight into the door. Use clamps or a helper to hold the door steady, and wear eye protection.
Common Problems
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Door will not latch | Strike plate out of line | Adjust or recess the plate |
| Handle feels loose | Screws not tight or spindle too short | Tighten or use a longer spindle |
| Handle will not return | Spindle binding | Check alignment and refit |
| Door rattles | Latch plate proud | Deepen the recess |
For fire doors, entry doors or locks that serve a security role, follow the maker’s instructions and local rules, and ask a qualified professional when needed.
FAQ
Do all handles fit all doors?
No. Door thickness, hole sizes and latch length vary, so check the maker’s guide before buying.
Which way should the latch face?
The curved or angled face of the latch bolt points toward the closing direction of the door.
The Short Version
Fit the latch, spindle and handles in the maker’s order, then line up the strike plate and test the door. For new holes, measure with care and bore from both sides to keep the wood clean.