To remove a door knob without visible screws, follow these general steps:
- Locate the release mechanism : Most screwless door knobs have a small hole, slot, or tab on the knob or its base (the rose or trim plate). This is often on the interior knob or the side of the knob facing the door.
- Use a tool to press the release pin or tab : Insert a narrow tool such as a straightened paper clip, a small flat-head screwdriver, or a pin into the hole or slot. Press firmly to engage the release mechanism while simultaneously pulling the knob away from the door. Sometimes you may need to twist the knob slightly while pulling to loosen it.
- Remove the decorative cover plate : Once the knob is off, pry off the trim or rose plate that conceals the screws holding the mounting plate. Use a flat-head screwdriver to gently pry at a small notch or edge until the plate pops off.
- Unscrew the mounting screws : With the cover plate removed, you will see the screws securing the knob assembly to the door. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove these screws.
- Pull the knob and latch assembly apart : After the screws are removed, pull the knob parts away from the door. You may need to twist the knob to free it from the latch mechanism.
- Remove the latch and strike plate : Unscrew and remove the latch mechanism from the edge of the door, and if needed, remove the strike plate from the door jamb.
This method works for many common screwless door knobs where screws are hidden under a decorative plate or the knob itself has a release pin
. If the knob has tabs on the side, pressing these tabs while pulling the knob off is another common release method
. If no hole or tab is visible, try rotating the cover plate counterclockwise to unscrew it, as some models have a twist-off cover
. In summary, removing a door knob without visible screws involves finding and pressing a hidden release pin or tab, removing the trim plate, then unscrewing the mounting screws underneath before pulling the knob off
