How to Reverse a Lever Door Handle

Reversing a lever door handle means changing its opening direction—so a left-hand handle becomes right-hand, or vice versa. This task is common when you remodel a room, move doors to different frames, or replace hardware on opposite-swing doors. Most modern lever handles are reversible, and with a few tools, you can complete the job in minutes.

1. Tools and Preparation

Before starting, gather the following tools:

• Phillips and flathead screwdrivers

• Small Allen (hex) key

• Lubricant spray

• Masking tape or soft cloth

• Utility knife (for painted edges)

Preparation tips:
Close the door firmly but not locked. Use masking tape or cloth around the handle to protect the finish. Make sure you have adequate lighting and space to work on both sides of the door.

2. Remove the Lever Handle

The first step is detaching the handle set from the door.

1. Locate the set screw
   Most lever handles have a small screw under the lever neck or on the side of the rose.
   Use the correct Allen key or screwdriver to loosen it counterclockwise.

2. Remove the lever
   Once loosened, gently pull the lever away from the spindle (the square bar that passes through the latch).

3. Take off the decorative cover
   If the screws are hidden, insert a flat screwdriver wrapped in tape into the thin gap at the base and pry off the rose or backplate carefully.

4. Unscrew the mounting plate
   Under the cover, you’ll see two screws holding the assembly to the door. Remove them and hold the opposite handle so it doesn’t drop.

At this stage, both levers and the spindle can be separated from the door.

3. Remove and Reverse the Latch

On the edge of the door, locate the latch mechanism that extends into the door frame.

1. Unscrew the two latch screws on the door edge.

2. Gently pull the latch out halfway.

3. Examine the beveled face of the latch—the sloped side should always face the direction the door closes against the frame.

4. If the slope is on the wrong side, rotate the latch 180 degrees. Most modern latches allow this simple reversal.

5. Slide the latch back in and tighten the screws.

If your latch cannot be flipped, you may need a reversible latch kit or replacement model compatible with your handle set.

4. Adjust or Flip the Spindle (if necessary)

The spindle connects both handles through the latch.
For reversible lever sets, you can simply reinsert the spindle from the opposite side.
Ensure that the flat edges of the spindle align with the handle mechanism on both sides.
Lightly apply lubricant to ensure smooth rotation.

5. Reinstall the Handle in Reversed Orientation

Now that the latch and spindle are set, reinstall the handle in its new direction.

1. Position the inside and outside handles correctly — the lever should point downward and away from the door edge when at rest.

2. Insert the spindle through the latch.

3. Align both mounting plates and insert the screws.

4. Tighten the screws evenly so the plates sit flush against the door.

5. Slide the lever onto the spindle, ensuring the mechanism engages properly.

6. Tighten the set screw to secure the lever.

7. Snap or screw the decorative cover back in place.

6. Test and Fine-Tune

After reassembly:

• Open and close the door several times to confirm the latch retracts and extends smoothly.

• Check that the handle springs back horizontally after release.

• If the lever droops, tighten the set screw again or inspect the spring cassette inside the handle.

• If the latch doesn’t align with the strike plate, adjust the strike plate position on the frame by loosening its screws slightly and shifting it up or down as needed.

7. Important Safety and Maintenance Tips

• Always check your door type before reversing—fire-rated or security doors may require professional servicing.

• Avoid over-tightening screws, as this can strip threads or distort the plate.

• If paint or corrosion is present, use penetrating oil and wait a few minutes before loosening screws.

• Keep all original screws and parts labeled in case you need to reinstall later.

• Apply a drop of lubricant to the spindle and latch once a year to maintain smooth operation.

8. Summary

Reversing a lever door handle is straightforward with the correct preparation:

1. Remove the handle and latch.

2. Flip the latch so the bevel faces the correct closing direction.

3. Reinstall the handle on the opposite side.

4. Tighten, test, and adjust alignment.

With patience and a few hand tools, you can complete the task safely in less than 30 minutes.

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