Loose door handles are one of the most common (and most annoying) household problems. Fortunately, they're usually simple to fix.
Why Handles Come Loose
The usual culprits:
- Grub screw has worked loose (most common)
- Mounting screws need tightening
- Rose (backplate) has come loose
- Internal mechanism worn
Most of the time, you're looking at a simple tightening job.
Lever Handle on Rose (Modern Type)
The most common style - a lever handle attached to a round rose/backplate.
Step 1: Find the Grub Screw
Look on the underside of the lever (the bit you can't normally see). There should be a small screw - often a hex/Allen key fitting.
Step 2: Tighten It
- Use the correct size Allen key (usually 2.5mm or 3mm)
- Turn clockwise to tighten
- Don't overtighten - just firm
If it won't stay tight: The grub screw may be worn or the spindle (the square bar through the door) may be damaged. May need replacing.
Step 3: Check the Rose
The round backplate should be tight against the door.
If loose:
- Look for screws on the face of the rose
- Some roses have a hidden fixing - look for a small slot to pry off a cover plate
- Tighten screws underneath
Lever Handle Through Rose (Exposed Screws)
Some handles have visible screws on the rose.
Simply Tighten
- Use appropriate screwdriver
- Tighten all visible screws
- Check both sides of door
If screws spin but don't tighten: The holes in the door are stripped. Fill with matchsticks + wood glue, let dry, then redrive screws.
Traditional Door Knobs
Round knobs usually have a grub screw on the neck.
The Process
- Look at the neck of the knob (where it meets the door)
- Find the grub screw (small, on the underside)
- Tighten with correct Allen key or small screwdriver
- If there's also a rose, tighten that too
Old brass knobs: May have a thread - the knob screws onto the spindle. Turn the knob clockwise to tighten.
Euro Handle Sets (Modern Doors)
Often seen on internal fire doors and modern doors. Long backplate with handle and keyhole.
How They Work
Usually two screws visible on the face, or screws hidden behind caps.
- Find and tighten the mounting screws
- If there's a grub screw on the lever, tighten that too
- Check the spindle isn't worn
The Spindle Problem
The spindle is the square bar that goes through the door and connects both handles.
Signs of spindle problems:
- Handle feels loose even after tightening
- Handle turns but doesn't operate the latch
- Visible wear on the square edges
The fix:
- Replace the spindle (cheap, usually £2-3)
- May need to replace handles if the hole is worn oval
Mortice Lock Handles
Handles on a mortice lock (the type with a keyhole and proper lock built into the door).
These Have More Parts
- Handle lever - May have grub screw
- Backplate/rose - Screws to door
- Lock follower - Connects handle to lock mechanism
Tightening
- Tighten grub screws on levers
- Tighten backplate screws
- If handle turns but lock doesn't operate, the follower or spindle may be worn
When Parts Need Replacing
Replace the Handle If:
- Grub screw hole is stripped
- Handle itself is cracked
- Finish is damaged beyond repair
Replace the Spindle If:
- Square edges are worn round
- Spindle is bent
- Wrong length for your door
Replace the Whole Set If:
- Multiple worn parts
- Can't find matching replacement parts
- Want to upgrade anyway
Replacement handles: £15-£50 for decent internal handles. Measure the spindle hole centres if replacing like-for-like.
Tools You Need
- Allen keys (small set covering 2-3mm)
- Small Phillips screwdriver
- Small flat screwdriver
- Possibly a torch (grub screws hide in shadows)
Quick Reference
| Problem | Likely Fix |
|---|---|
| Lever wobbles | Tighten grub screw |
| Handle turns but doesn't work | Replace spindle |
| Rose is loose | Tighten rose screws |
| Screws don't tighten | Fill holes, redrive |
| Everything tight but still wobbles | Internal wear, may need new handle |
Prevention
- Check and tighten annually
- Don't hang things on door handles (pulls them loose)
- Don't slam doors (stresses the fixings)
Can't get it sorted? I fix door handles across Exeter - from quick tightening to full replacement. Call 01392 964094 or get a quote.
Sam Hembury
Sam is the founder of Hembury Contracting, providing professional handyman services across Exeter and Devon. With years of experience in property maintenance, he shares practical tips to help homeowners tackle common tasks.