How to Open a Door with a Broken Handle

A broken door handle doesn’t happen very often, but when it does, it’s always a very unpleasant surprise. The hindered accessibility to the property is the least of your problems, however, while the compromised security is the biggest.

In such rare cases it pays to know alternative methods to open a door with a broken handle, so read along and take notes. So, first things first.

Why won’t the door handle open?

If you’re facing issues with your broken door handle and finding it difficult to open, several common problems may be at play.

1. Tightened screws – Overly tightened screws can restrict the handle’s movement, and operating the door may not feel smooth any more. This may lead to the handle’s backplate pinching the lock, hindering the effective operation of the spring mechanism;
2. Lack of lubrication – Internal springs within the handle may bind, which will result in difficulty operating the door. Without proper lubrication, friction in the internal components, especially the springs, can interfere with the smooth rotation of the handle;
3. Failed spring mechanism – If the uPVC door fails to latch shut correctly, there could be an issue with the lock’s spring mechanism. A malfunctioning spring can lead to improper latching, compromising the door’s functionality;
4. Loose set screw – If the doorknob turns, but the door won’t open, a loose set screw holding the knob or handle to the rod might be the culprit;
5. Other causes – External factors like broken keys jamming the lock, rust affecting internal components, or misalignment between different parts of the door can all lead to the handle not working properly or even breaking;
6. Handle replacement – Over time, handles can wear out or sustain damage beyond repair, necessitating replacement to restore the door’s functionality. When attempts to fix the handle prove futile, replacement may be your only practical solution.

Now when you know the possible reasons, let’s get down to business.

How to open a door when the handle is broken

Begin by inspecting the door’s locking mechanism and identify the type and severity of damage the door handle has sustained. This is how to open the door when the handle is broken:

Method 1: Try to adjust the internal mechanism

When the internal mechanism of the door handle is broken, preventing the latch from engaging properly, it requires a more careful approach.

1. Examine the latch mechanism and attempt to manipulate it to open the door.
2. Carefully check for any loose screws or components that may be hindering the proper operation of the handle.
3. If possible, try to reposition or adjust the internal parts to allow the door to open smoothly.

If you find these steps challenging or if the issue persists, seeking a professional locksmith is recommended.

Method 2: Use a thin flexible item like a credit card to manipulate the latch

The first thing which comes to mind is when you need to figure out how to open an internal door when the handle is broken.

Mind you, this makeshift solution may look cool, especially in movies, but may not work on all types of doors or latches. It’s recommended to seek professional assistance if the door is equipped with a more complex locking mechanism

Method 3: Utilise pliers or wrenches to grip and turn the exposed spindle

If you’re facing an exposed spindle on uPVC door handle, follow these step-by-step instructions:

If this method doesn’t quite work for you, check our post on broken uPVC door lock mechanism for additional insights.

Method 4: Leveraging flat objects as makeshift handles

When faced with a broken door handle that can no longer be used, your only option for the moment is to find a temporary replacement.

Method 5: Replace the spring cassette or washer

The result of this problem is a loose or detached handle from its base. This can be a quick fix.

1. Open the door and remove the two screws holding the escutcheon plates.
2. After that, carefully take off both plates to reveal the internal mechanism.
3. If you find spring cassettes, remove them from each escutcheon plate and inspect for any damage.
4. If the cassette area is no longer square-shaped, it needs replacement.
5. If your handle has washers, remove the old broken washers and replace them with new ones.

Usually, this should be enough, but if you need more details, check our post on how to fix a floppy door handle.

Method 6: Seek professional assistance

When dealing with a broken door handle, seeking professional assistance is a wise decision in the following situations:

Preventive measures

To ensure the prolonged functionality of your door handles and prevent future incidents, consider following these practical tips:

1. Regular inspection and maintenance – Regularly inspect your door handles for any signs of wear, loose screws, or malfunction. Perform maintenance tasks promptly by tightening screws and addressing minor issues before they turn into larger problems;
2. Lubrication for prevention – Apply a suitable lubricant to your door handles at regular intervals. Lubrication helps prevent rust formation and reduces stiffness in the mechanism, ensuring smooth and effortless operation;
3. Exercise caution with fragile handles – Exercise caution when handling doors with fragile or worn-out handles. Avoid exerting excessive force, especially if you notice any signs of wear. Gentle operation and proper care can significantly extend the lifespan of your door handles.