Replacing internal door knobs in period property

[WellTidy]

Our house is 1920s, and we have a complete mix of door knobs through the house (different shape, some with locks - keys - some without). At the moment, they're an antique brass. We would like to replace them with satin chrome or satin nickel - something more modern looking, but not so as they would show every smudge or fingerprint.

Would I need to replace the mechanisms as well (and I would need to get someone in to do that as I have no idea), or is it simply a matter of buying new knobs? I am trying to get a feel for how big a job this would be. We would like to do the whole house.

Is there a little screw at the bottom of the knob (that sounds very rude)?

If so you should be able to undo it and take the knob off and put the new one back onto the bar in the door.

There are lots of screws on each of the knobs. Maybe four or so. Some of the doors have knobs on one side, and a plate with a key and a knob on the other. They are a complete mix.

Does this mean that I can replace the knobs and plates only, and not the mechanisms, do you think?

In theory you should be able to u screw your old ones and replace with new. You shouldn’t need new latches or locks. The new knobs will have new spindles. You may not need to use them, but if you do, then they may need to be cut down.
It’s a fairly easy job.
Buy one to start with and see if you’re capable.
Take a look at Ironmongery Direct

WellTidy,

NetballHoop means is there a screw underneath the knob? This screw holds the handle onto the spindle. Undo that, pull the knob off one side. You can either then remove the other knob off complete with spindle, or carry out the same exercise on the other side and leave the spindle in situ.

If you do it, don’t throw the old ones away, a reclamation yard or eBay will give you good money for them. Ours are a mismatched collection too but I love them, they add character.

Put them in a box and hand them to the buyer of your house when you move.

Replacing original features in an old house is a hard and expensive job.

You can certainly fit new doorknobs or handles to your old locks and latches. They have a standard-size spindle.

Please post photos of your existing knobs, close up, and also standing back ebough to see the entire door. also the latch or bolt on the edge of the door please.