Should I fix my broken doorknob or replace the whole door?

Question

I broke it when I was locked out because I needed to get in quickly. The hole where the knob used to be is pretty messed up as is the lock mechanism.

Mary Insana · Answer

Unless you can find something to use as a backplate to cover the hole where it would show past the the door knob I really can't see saving the door. If this is an entrance door it may be safer to just get a new door for security purposes

Brian Campbell, Basswood Artisan Carpentry · Answer

They do make door reinforcement hardware to cover the damage and allow the proper placement of the lockset. https://buydoorhardwarenow.com/don-jo_61-cw_door_reinforcer

Hamtil Construction LLC · Answer

You could probably patch the damage I see in the photo with wood filler. However, you won't be able to match the woodgrain door texture, and it might not hold up to well, so Brian's suggestion is a pretty good one. Or, replace the door.

Brian Campbell, Basswood Artisan Carpentry · Answer

It would be best to both use wood filler AND use the the door reinforcer. The reinforcer works best with solid material behind it, otherwise the lockset can get wonky as you tighten it down.

Hudson Designs · Answer

I will have to say, replace the door. This is a fiber core door and they are not to costly.
The area is far to damaged to place wood filler into, it will fail. The other solution is to use a commercial steel plate that fits over this area but that will look like it belongs in a office or warehouse area.

Leslie D · Answer

Gotta agree with the others...replace the door, for the reasons already given, and also for the fact that you've given a good start to someone else who may be in a hurry to get into your house.

Brian Campbell, Basswood Artisan Carpentry · Answer

This looks like an interior door to me, so the lock is likely for privacy rather than security. I usually prefer fixing things rather than filling landfills with them.

Anna Marie A · Answer

I agree with Brian. I like to fix rather that replace if i can. I grew up in the locksmithing business and this is what our company would have installed for a situation like yours. http://absupply.net/mag-security.aspx

Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com · Answer

In the future do one of two things. Hide a key somewhere no one would find it or give one to neighbors. Or if you must break the lock, A large pair of pliers such as channel locks or water pump pliers will turn the knob and break it off. This should allow you to simply use a large screw driver to open up the door. But if you think about that, they will be locked in the house too. I suggest a 2nd key hidden. Also put one in glove box of car.

Jeanette S · Answer

If this is an interior door, repair it. If an outside door replace it and get a punch key lock so you don't even have to worrry about a key. We have this on outside doos in our home and we love it! We even have punch key lock on the garage door! Never use a key!

HandyANDY - Handyman & All Repairs, LLC · Answer

If you have the basic skills, replace the door with a pre-drilled slab for about $30. Use the old door as a template for placing and cutting the new door hinges...you can reuse the old hinges. I don't know the location of the door but the reinforcing hardware is going to cost more and look silly on an interior door. Most times when a door like this locks, you can pop it slightly with a small trim pry bar and slide a credit card in to pop the door open. I have a tenant who locked the basement door twice yesterday by accident....and this little trick worked like a charm.

Remodel and Repair by Handyman Solutions · Answer

A new door slab would be the best option. However you can reinforce the door with this type of hardware.

Vintage Headboards · Answer

Hollow core doors are $18 at Home Depot and will look the best. They are sold already primed white.

Terrie Kaufman · Answer

I am sorry, I am laughing but not at you. If YOU broke in what in the world makes you feel a new lockset would make you more secure. If this is a 'entry door' bite the bullet and buy a solid core door or better yet, buy a metal security door and sleep more soundly. For $85.00 you can snooze with confidence, or at least more so. Good Luck

Rosalie chow · Answer

Replace the door is my suggestion. The doorknob hole might be infection by termite. I would replace the door to be more secured. Good luck and God bless you.

Andre Beluchi · Answer

This same question also came to my mind after I locked myself out of my bedroom and ended up having to destroy the doorknob. Due to my clumsy mistake, I'm deciding whether to replace the door or just talk to a locksmith about getting a new doorknob. The door itself is still in good condition with the exception of a big hole . http://scscincus.com/local-commercial-locksmith-services/

Should I fix my broken doorknob or replace the whole door?

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Should I fix my broken doorknob or replace the whole door?

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