How do i remove this jammed door handle?

[elisa1]

Hi all - my bathroom door is jammed shut and I can’t work out how to get the handle off from the outside? Can anyone assist with advice?

 

[EricL]

Hello @elisa1 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about your locked door handle.

I've managed to identify your door handle; It is the Lockwood 1360 Series Brass Door Handles - Lever 70. I suggest trying to remove the cover flange of the handle, it is either a twist off or lift off model. Once you have the flange removed, it might be possible to loosen the fixing screws of the handle and disassemble the whole unit from the outside. Another option would be to try and push the locking pin open to allow you to open the door handle.

My next suggestion would be to try can access the latch by cutting the trim on the door frame. I recommend using a Multi Tool with a timber plunge blade. You can then try using a sharp thin knife to hit the latch and get it to sink which will allow you to push the door open.

My last suggestion would be the most destructive one and that is to use your Multi Tool and use a steel cutting blade and cut the door knob off. This will give you access to the internals of the door knob and allow you to take it apart.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when demolishing the door handle. 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Dave-1]

Good Evening @elisa1 

😕 Not a good option, looking at the door handle I couldnt find/figure a way around the issue. I would follow @EricL 's suggestion and go back to using a saber saw (or hacksaw blade with a rag wrapped one end) and saw through the brass latch itself. You will probarly scratch/destroy the catch plate but its better then destroying the actual door as it can be replaced.

I have used a hacksaw with a rag around the end before, and sawing brass will take time but is doable. Patience is king.

Dave

[Nailbag]

Hi @elisa1 

Is the issue that the handle move up and down as normal but the door won't open? If so the latch the is pushed in/out in to the door frame is the problem.

The outer ring plate will either unscrew or pry off. It will then show the mounting plate, but may not solve your issue. Securing screws may be both inserted from the other side, or one of each side. To be honest it can get complicated from here to explain and requires a combination of dental force and manipulation. as well as knowing how door handles are assembled.

So, my advice to protect the door from damage causing more expense, I would call, in a decent handyman or locksmith. The handyman will be 3 times cheaper.