How to install a handleset on your front door
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
Here is a detailed breakdown with photos of the steps you'll need to take to install a new Schlage handleset on your front door.
Updating the door hardware on your front door is a quick and easy project that enhances the curb appeal of your home. With minimal investment and few tools, we'll show you all the steps you'll need to take to tackle this project in a few minutes. Go ahead and grab your #2 Phillips Head screwdriver and tape measure and learn how to install a new handleset on your front door below. Be sure to review the deadbolt installation steps first if you'll be installing a new deadbolt as well.
Handleset Parts Checklist
Once you've gathered your tools, make sure all the parts of your handleset are accounted for. This step will ensure that the installation process goes as smoothly as possible. Here's a checklist and photo to help:
Outside handle assembly: This is the exterior grip of your handleset.
Inside lever: This is the lever that will be on the interior side of the door. You can also choose a handleset with knob on interior side instead.
Strike plate: The strike plate is the metal plate that will be affixed to the door frame.
Latch: The latch is a spring operated bolt with a beveled face to permit a latching action when the door closes
Round drive-in faceplate: This is an optional faceplate that may replace the rectangular faceplate already attached to the latch if your door calls for it.
Pin tool
Screw cover, screw and washer: These will be placed on the interior side of the throughbolt hole to secure the bottom of the handleset.
Short screws: These will be used to secure the latch in place.
Long screws
Measurement Checklist
You'll also want to be sure your door meets standard door prep measurements and is properly aligned to ensure your handleset operates as intended. You'll first want to follow the measurement steps we showed you for the deadbolt installation but for a handleset, there are a couple more measurements you'll need to pay attention to.
Throughbolt
- The throughbolt hole is for the bottom of the outside handle assembly. This hole needs to be 3/8" in diameter.
Handleset Crossbore
- The handleset crossbore is the bottom bore opening on a standard drilled door. It should measure 8 1/2" from the center of the handleset crossbore to the throughbolt.
Doorjamb
- The hole in the doorjamb should measure at least 7/8" in diameter and a minimum of a 1/2" deep.
Handleset Installation Instructions
1. You'll begin installing your handleset by placing the latch first.*
*The latch comes with a pre-attached rectangular faceplate. If your door calls for a round drive-in faceplate, complete steps a-c before proceeding. You'll also need to add a flat head screwdriver, hammer and block of wood to your tool set.
a. Remove faceplate with a flat head screwdriver
b. Twist and remove remaining support plate
c. Install round drive-in faceplate with just a snap
2. If you're using the rectangular faceplate, simply slide the latch into place with the bevel facing the doorjamb and secure with the two short screws.
If you're using the round drive-in faceplate, slide the latch into the hole with the bevel facing the doorjamb. Gently tap into place until flush with the door edge, using a small block of wood to protect the latch.
3. Next, you'll install the outside handle assembly. Align the spindle on the back of the assembly with the throughbolt and the slot in the latch. Slide the adjustable throughbolt up or down as needed and press the handleset onto the door. The handle will stay in place leaving your hands free to secure the interior trim.
4. Begin installing the inside lever by orienting the lever to point away from the edge of the door with the screw holes aligned vertically.
5. Align the square spindle with the square hole on the back of the lever and secure with the two screws provided.
6. Now you're ready to place the washer, screw and screw cover to secure the bottom of the handleset.
7. Finally, install the strike plate on the doorjamb using the last two small screws.
For even more detailed steps to installing your new handleset, be sure to watch the installation video.
