Doorknob installation cost in Australia: What you’ll pay for parts and labour

A doorknob doesn't necessarily have a lock. It acts as a tool to grasp, open, and close the door. Door handles are more common here than doorknobs. If you're working on a home improvement project, you must be wondering, how much does door handle installation cost? Or how much does it cost to replace doorknobs if you're renovating your house?

You can find different types of doorknobs and door handles. Doorknobs start at $11 to as much as $95. On the other hand, door handles cost as low as $8 to as much as $229. Labour costs for doorknob/handle installation start at $30 to $175 for an entire workday. If you're installing a door handle, you can include locks, deadbolts, hinges, and doorbells for $6 to $590.  

This guide will provide more information on doorknob installation costs.

How much does it cost to install door hardware?

Doorknob prices vary according to style. Buying a doorknob doesn't come with an installation fee. Thus, you have to pay for its labour fee as well.

Doorknobs aren't as popular as door handles, which are easier to operate. The prices for doorknobs and handles differ by design. See the table below for more details on doorknob installation costs:

A professional carefully installs a new lever-style doorknob on a timber entry door. (Source: iStock)

Mortice knob

A mortice knob usually controls the lock from the inside of the door. It is common in front doors for added security. It can be an excellent alternative to door handles for $11 to $95. A mortice knob usually comes with a lock and costs $200 to $420.

Door handle on a rose

This door handle is usually attached to a circular plate called a “rose." It's ideal for modern homes and has a wide selection of designs. Expect to pay $24 to $229.

Door handle on a backplate

A door handle on a backplate is part of a contemporary backplate concealing the screws and locking mechanism. It costs $15 to $440.

Face-fix handle

Face-fix handles aren't common in houses. However, you can find them in commercial buildings and corridors. They are usually parts of heavier doors and have aluminium variants. You might pay $8 for small ones and up to $829 for large handles.

Factors affecting the cost of doorknob installation

Different things affect doorknob/handle installation. Prices will also vary according to the type of doorknob, your location, and additional hardware like double locks.

Doorknob/handle type

Keyed entrance

This doorknob or handle is typically part of home exteriors and bedrooms. You can lock it without a key, but you need one when opening the doorknob from the outside. Be careful when installing it, especially if you're a little forgetful. Be sure to have a spare key.

Privacy

Most of the time, privacy doorknobs are for bedrooms and bathrooms. They have a lock control mechanism and offer complete privacy. You can easily open them from inside a room, usually with just a turn of the knob. Privacy doorknobs have a generic key for opening the door from the outside, just in case children accidentally lock themselves in.

Passage

Passage doorknobs/handles don't have any locking mechanism and are usually for doors leading to kitchens or laundry rooms. You can open them inside and outside a room, so they don't offer much security.

Dummy knob/handle

Dummy knobs or handles are completely stationary, so you can't rotate them. You only use them to open doors. You can find them on kitchen and bathroom cabinets where you quickly access your stuff.

Location

Your location plays an important role when installing doorknobs/handles. The farther you are, the more you will pay for the labour, as this will include your installer's transportation fee. Urban homes are easier to access than those in the countryside.

Additional locks

Installing double locks will cost you more. However, they're a good investment, especially if you attach them to your main door for added security.

Smart lock systems

These are becoming popular among households these days. Perhaps it's because you don't need to worry about forgetting your keys inside your home anymore. However, smart lock systems come with a hefty price. Expect to pay $90 or more if you want to buy one.

What other things do I need when installing door hardware?

If this is a new house, you need to hire someone to install your door first. Are you renovating your home? Airtasker also provides door repair services. You might want to add the following things when booking a doorknob/handle installation service:

Attaching a sleek gold doorknob to a white interior door with a precision screwdriver. (Source: iStock)

Can I install door hardware by myself?

Yes, you can, as some stores offer DIY kits for doorknob installation. However, doorknob installation requires proper measurements of different parts, so it's better to leave it in the hands of an expert. Inexperience can lead to security issues. 

How do I find someone to install my doorknob?

Doorknob installation in households doesn't require any licence or permit. However, inform your tradesman about the Australian Standard for mechanical locksets if you're a business owner. You can ask your friends and family for recommendations. However, if you dislike the hassle, Airtasker offers services for installing doorknobs. 

How to book a doorknob installer on Airtasker

Posting a task on Airtasker is easy! Remember that the more details you provide, the easier it is to receive offers. Here's a list of what to include:

1. Your desired service
2. Your location
3. Your budget
4. Your available tools or equipment
5. Your preferred start date
6. Additional tasks you want to include