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How to install a door handle

White door with a sleek black handle is partially open

Overview

Installing a new door handle is a simple and rewarding D.I.Y. project that can instantly refresh the look of your door. Whether you're replacing an old handle or working with a new door, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1

Measure the height for the handle

If you’re working with a new door, you’ll need to cut a hole for the handle and latch. Start by marking the standard height for the door handle—this is usually 1050mm from the floor to the centre of the handle. Use a square to transfer this measurement around the door for accuracy. If you're replacing a handle, ensure the height matches the other door handles in your home for consistency. Mark this height on the edge of the door.
Mark measurements on a wall to measure the standard door handle height

2

Measure the backset distance

The backset is the distance from the edge of the door to the centre of the hole where the handle will be installed. Most door handle kits have a standard backset of either 60mm or 70mm. Mark this distance from the door edge—this is where you’ll drill the hole for the handle.
Measure the backset distance where the handle will be installed

3

Drill the hole for the handle

Attach a hole saw bit to your drill and drill a hole through the face of the door at your marked spot. To avoid splintering, drill halfway from one side of the door, then finish drilling from the other side for a clean cut.
Drill a hole with hole saw attachment in the wall

4

Drill the hole for the latch

Using a spade drill bit (24-25mm), drill a hole on the edge of the door for the latch. Ensure you drill deep enough for the latch to fit snugly.
Drill a hole on the edge of the door for the latch

5

Fit the latch

Slide the latch into the hole on the edge of the door and mark where the screws will go. Pre-drill these holes and temporarily screw the latch into place. 
Mark the position for a door latch plate

6

Create the recess

Use a utility knife to trace around the latch face, then remove the latch. Use a chisel to create a recess so the latch sits flush with the door’s edge. Finally, secure the latch by screwing it back into place.
Create a recess on the door edge

7

Install the handles

Align the outside handle with the spindle (the long metal piece that passes through the latch mechanism) and insert it into the hole. Attach the inside handle, ensuring both handles are aligned correctly. Secure them together by tightening the screws and test the handle to ensure it operates smoothly.
Install the door handle by aligning it with the latch mechanism

8

Install the strike plate

Close the door and mark where the latch meets the door frame. Measure from the edge of the latch to the edge of the door, and transfer this measurement to the frame.
Mark the position for a strike plate on a door frame

9

Attach the strike plate

Attach the strike plate and trace around it with a utility knife. Remove the strike plate and use a chisel to create a recess so it sits flush with the frame. Drill the recess with a spade bit, then screw the strike plate into place. This will complete your new door handle installation.
Attach a strike plate into the recess created in the door frame

10

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Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.