As a photographer, I cannot capture the process of removing a commercial door knob in a single image, but I can visualize a close-up shot featuring a hand gripping a screwdriver, poised to unscrew the door knob.

How To Remove A Commercial Door Knob

ByHulya Aksu Updated on

Replacing a worn or damaged commercial door knob may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of elbow grease, it can be a straightforward DIY project. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: use a Philips head screwdriver to remove the exterior plate and interior knob.

Then use a hex wrench to loosen the set screws and pull the knob assembly off the spindle.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through all the steps, tools, and techniques you need to successfully remove a commercial door knob from start to finish.

Assemble the Proper Tools

When it comes to removing a commercial door knob, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some of the tools you will need:

1. Philips head screwdriver

A Philips head screwdriver is a must-have tool for removing a commercial door knob. This type of screwdriver has a cross-shaped tip that fits into the screws on the door knob. It allows you to easily unscrew the screws and remove the door knob.

2. Hex wrench

A hex wrench, also known as an Allen wrench, is another tool you will need. Some commercial door knobs are secured with hex screws rather than regular Phillips head screws. Having a hex wrench of the appropriate size will enable you to loosen and remove these screws.

3. Utility knife

A utility knife is a versatile tool that can come in handy when removing a commercial door knob. It can be used to cut through any sealant or adhesive that may be holding the knob in place. This will make it easier to remove the knob without causing any damage to the door or surrounding area.

4. Needle nose pliers

Needle nose pliers are a useful tool for removing a commercial door knob. They have long, slender jaws that can reach into tight spaces and grip small objects. If there are any screws or small parts that are difficult to remove by hand, needle nose pliers can make the task much easier.

By ensuring you have the necessary tools before you begin, you can save yourself time and frustration during the door knob removal process.

Remove the Exterior Plate and Interior Knob

Unscrew and remove exterior plate

To begin removing a commercial door knob, the first step is to unscrew and remove the exterior plate. The exterior plate is the part of the door knob that is visible from the outside. It is usually held in place by several screws. Using a screwdriver, carefully remove the screws and set them aside.

Once the screws are removed, the exterior plate should easily come off, exposing the inner workings of the door knob.

Unscrew and remove interior knob

The next step in removing a commercial door knob is to unscrew and remove the interior knob. The interior knob is the part of the door knob that is visible from the inside. Similar to the exterior plate, it is also held in place by screws.

Use a screwdriver to carefully remove the screws and set them aside. With the screws removed, the interior knob should come off easily, allowing access to the latch mechanism.

Pro Tip: If you’re having trouble unscrewing the screws, try spraying a little bit of lubricant, such as WD-40, on them. This can help loosen them and make the removal process easier.

For a visual demonstration on how to remove a commercial door knob, you can check out this helpful video tutorial from YouTube. It provides step-by-step instructions and visual guidance to ensure a smooth removal process.

Loosen the Set Screws

When it comes to removing a commercial door knob, the first step is to loosen the set screws. These screws are typically located on the collar of the knob and hold it in place. Loosening these screws will allow you to easily remove the knob and gain access to the inner workings of the door.

Insert hex wrench into set screw

To begin, you will need a hex wrench that fits the set screw. The size of the wrench will vary depending on the specific door knob you are working with. Insert the hex wrench into the set screw, making sure it is securely in place.

Turn counterclockwise to loosen

Once the hex wrench is inserted into the set screw, turn it counterclockwise to loosen the screw. It may take some effort to get the screw to start turning, so be patient and apply steady pressure. As you turn the screw, you will feel it start to loosen its grip on the collar of the knob.

Pro tip: If the set screw is particularly tight and difficult to loosen, you can try applying some penetrating oil to help loosen it. Just be sure to wipe away any excess oil before moving on to the next step.

Once the set screws are loosened, you can proceed to remove the commercial door knob and continue with any necessary repairs or replacements.

Remove the Knob Assembly from the Spindle

When it comes to removing a commercial door knob, the first step is to remove the knob assembly from the spindle. This process may vary slightly depending on the type of knob you have, but here are two common methods:

Wiggle knob assembly back and forth

Start by firmly gripping the knob assembly with one hand. With your other hand, gently wiggle the knob back and forth. This motion helps to loosen any adhesive or friction that may be holding the knob in place. Continue wiggling the knob until it feels loose enough to remove.

Pull firmly away from door

Once the knob assembly is loosened, it’s time to remove it from the spindle. Position your hand around the knob and firmly pull it away from the door. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this could damage the door or the knob itself.

If the knob doesn’t come off easily, you may need to try wiggling it some more or consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific removal techniques.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to wear protective gloves and eyewear when working with door hardware. Additionally, if you’re unsure about any step of the process, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance.

Clean and Replace Spindle if Needed

When removing a commercial door knob, it is important to clean and inspect the spindle, as it plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of the door knob. Here are the steps to clean and replace the spindle if needed:

Wipe down spindle with rag

Start by wiping down the spindle with a clean rag to remove any dirt, grime, or debris that may have accumulated over time. This will ensure that the spindle is clean and free from any obstructions that could hinder its performance.

Inspect for damage or stripping

Next, carefully inspect the spindle for any signs of damage or stripping. Look for cracks, bends, or worn-out areas that may affect its stability and functionality. If you notice any issues, it is important to address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Replace spindle if required

If the spindle is damaged beyond repair or is stripped, it is necessary to replace it with a new one. This can be done by purchasing a replacement spindle that matches the specifications of your commercial door knob.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance if needed to ensure proper installation.

Remember, a clean and well-maintained spindle is essential for the smooth operation of a commercial door knob. By regularly cleaning and inspecting the spindle, you can prevent potential issues and extend the lifespan of your door knob.

Conclusion

Removing a commercial door knob requires some specific tools and techniques, but is very doable for a handy DIYer. Focus on removing the exterior plate and interior knob first, then loosening the set screws and sliding off the assembly.

With a little bit of elbow grease, you’ll have that old knob removed in no time. This guide should provide you everything you need to successfully tackle this project from start to finish.

Hulya Aksu is the founder and editor-in-chief of Posh Seven Magazine, the leading lifestyle publication serving the affluent suburbs of Washington D.C. Born in Istanbul, Turkey, Hulya moved to the United States to pursue her passion for fashion. She worked for major fashion houses before recognizing a need for a magazine that spoke to successful women in D.C.'s prestigious neighborhoods.

In 2007, Hulya launched Posh Seven Magazine from her home while on maternity leave. The magazine quickly gained an avid following for its insider's perspective on upscale living in communities like McLean, Potomac, and Bethesda.

Over the past 15 years, Hulya has built Posh Seven into a multimedia brand with print, digital, social media, and experiential components. Her visionary leadership and hyper-local approach has made Posh Seven a go-to resource for over 100,000 readers.

As founder and editor-in-chief, Hulya lends the magazine her impeccable taste and insights into luxury living. She resides with her family in Ashburn, Virginia where the Posh Seven headquarters are located. Hulya is deeply committed to serving the vibrant community of successful women who call D.C.'s affluent suburbs home.

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