Replacing Your Bedroom Door Knob with a Lock: A Step-by-Step Guide

Replacing your bedroom door knob with a lock can significantly enhance the security of your home. Let’s walk through the process step by step to ensure you get the best results.

Understanding the Different Types of Door Handles

When replacing a bedroom door knob, it is crucial to understand the different types of door handles available:

1. Privacy Door Lock

Both sides are locked and unlocked by the inside turn-button. An emergency release is available outside.

2. Passage Door Handles

Both sides are always unlocked, providing easy access.

3. Dummy Door Handle

This type of handle is used for decorative purposes and is screw-attached from the inside of the door.

4. Keyed Door Handles

There are two kinds:

Entrancy Lock with combo: Both sides are locked and unlocked by an outside key or inside turn-button. One key opens the same lock.

Entrancy Lock: Both sides are locked and unlocked by an outside key or inside turn-button. The key is unique.

Preparing for Your Replacement

Before you begin, gather all the necessary supplies. Common items include:

Keyed door lock design for an interior door (e.g., Home Depot) Lubricant spray Screwdriver Flashlight Measuring tape Door Knob Parts Diagram

Make sure you have the proper tools and that your supplies are in order.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Door Knob

Follow these steps to replace your bedroom door knob and lock:

Step 1: Remove the Old Door Knob

Move the screw holding the door knob. Remember Lefty-Loosey and Righty-Tighty---counter-clockwise means loosening and clockwise means tightening.

Hold the door knob with one hand as you remove the screw with the other to avoid the knob falling off.

Once the screw is removed, gently pull the inside door knob off the spindle. Follow by removing the outside door knob from the spindle.

Finally, remove the old door latch.

Step 2: Verify Your Supplies and Directions

Review all the parts and ensure they are in order. Follow the manufacturer’s directions closely for the best results.

Step 3: Attach the Door Latch

Follow specific instructions provided with the lock kit for attaching the door latch to the door.

Step 4: Attach the Spindle

Insert the spindle from the outside of the door and slide it into the latch. The groove on the spindle should align with the groove on the latch.

Step 5: Add the Mounting Plate to the Outside Door Knob

Attach the connecting hardware to the outside door knob and line up the mounting plate with the lock hole. Secure the mounting plate to the outside knob.

Step 6: Attach the Inside Door Knob

Turn the second knob over to reveal the grooves on the outer rim. These grooves should align with the grooves on the mounting plate. Ensure the hole on the side rim of the interior knob lines up correctly with the metal ridge on the mounting plate.

Step 7: Replace the Strike Plate

Remove the old strike plate and replace it with the new one. Most often, you can do this without any changes.

Conclusion

Replacing your bedroom door knob with a lock is a straightforward process when you follow the steps carefully. By understanding the different types of door handles and preparing thoroughly, you can enhance the security of your home effectively.

Door Knob Parts Diagram

Diagram of door knob components

For more detailed information and diagrams, refer to the lock kit manual or manufacturer’s website.