How to Remove Push Bar From Door
Do you have a push bar on your door and want to remove it? Maybe it’s in the way, or perhaps you just don’t like the look of it. Regardless of why this blog post will help guide you through how to remove the push bar from the door!
We’ll first need to measure how long our existing push bar is without taking off the trim pieces. You can use a tape measure or ruler if required! Once we know how long it is, you can cut wood strips to match its length so they cover up where the push bar was original. Next, you’ll want to attach them with wood screws. But don’t put the screws in just yet! Read on to know more about removing the push bar from the door.
Seven Reasons Why You Should Remove Push Bar From Door:
- Easily open the exterior door with a handle rather than a push bar because it provides a natural way to open the door without force.
- Make broken parts visible to know what part to replace if any piece breaks off.
- Can paint or stain the wood surrounding the metal push bar for better aesthetics for your home decorating.
- If you buy a new door, there is no push bar but has an attached handle that makes it easy to open the exterior door.
- The removable push bar will make the installation easier when you buy a new replacement door.
- All other exterior doors in your home will not have a push bar installed, making it easier to find the right door when entering or exiting your home.
- You can easily replace an old exterior door with a new one without removing the push bar attached to the door’s metal frame, saving you time and money.
Materials and Supplies Needed:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Pry bar
8 Steps to Follow: How to Remove Push Bar From Door
You can remove a push bar from the door using either a hammer or screwdriver. Even though it is not recommended, you can also use both.
Step 1:
This method is easy to do, but it’s not recommended for small gaps. If you still want to try it, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to gap spark plugs with sandpaper.
Step 2:
Unscrew the set screws at both ends of the push bar using a Phillips head screwdriver. Then, slide the flat bar off of the door jamb. There is usually one set screw on each end, which may need to be replaced when you reattach the push bar.
Step 3:
Look at the bottom of your door to find out which part is made from wood and made from metal. It helps if you have some paint marker to make an “X” on both sides of the door. This will make it easier for you to see when you are reassembling the door later.
Step 4:
Start removing the metal plate attached to your door by removing any screws holding it in place using a Phillips head screwdriver. You may need to drill out any old screw heads before you can get them out with your screwdriver. Remove the metal plate.
Step 5:
Remove the wooden cover of your door using a hammer and chisel or screwdriver. You will know that you have successfully removed it when you see the screws that are inside.
Step 6:
Remove the cap covering the shaft that goes through your door by removing any screws that are holding it in place. You will then be able to slide the push bar off your door’s shaft.
Step 7:
Use a pair of pliers on each end of the spring clip and remove it from around the shaft. It will slide off easily when you grasp the ends of the spring clip with your pliers.
Step 8:
Put everything back together in reverse order by sliding the push bar onto the door shaft, placing the wooden cover on top of it, and securing it using screws. Reattach the metal plate that holds up your door using screws. Close the door to ensure that your push bar works before you screw it in permanently.
Some Tips and Tricks:
- If it’s stuck, be aware that you may need to use some force
- Use only a 6″ (or 6′ for people across the pond) extension bar or less (if you want to keep your knuckles away from door material)
- If you will be reinstalling it, put masking or duct tape on the door
- A little WD-40, PB Blaster, or other penetrating oil would be beneficial
- This door part is specifically made to ‘push’ and not ‘pull.’ If you try to pull it off, it will break (not that difficult if the adhesive (glue) has stuck this thing on with a death grip).
Precautions & Warnings
- The door can be heavy; arrange yourself and your tools before opening the door.
- Be aware that removing the push bar from a door can weaken the door’s security.
- Use caution when using power tools as they may have hidden dangers such as sparks and flying debris.
- Materials may be sharp or hot, avoid burns and protect the eyes.
- Use power tools according to the manufacturer’s instructions for your safety.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, removing a push bar from a door is easy. One should first find the screws around the perimeter of where they want to take out the bar and then place them into an electric drill with appropriate size socket bits. Finally, one must screw in those on top of the area where they plan on placing their hand and those below.
Once these have been secured tightly enough, all you need do is unscrew each part until there’s no more left for you to work with save for removing any leftover parts such as nails or brackets between both pieces of wood, which will be used again down the line if needed.
The final step includes reassembling everything back together so things can go back to normal when finished. We hope this article on removing the push bar from the door has helped answer any questions about getting rid of that pesky push bar! Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!
