UPVC Door Handles Replacement Guide

Replacing upvc door handles is an easy DIY task once you have the proper measurements. These measurements include the distance from the handle's backplate mounting centres (sometimes called PZ) to the central point of keyhole.

The most commonly used kind of uPVC door handle is one with two inline levers both internal and external connected by a spindle. They operate the multipoint lock that is found on uPVC and aluminium doors along with some wooden ones.

Brands and finishes

A broken uPVC handle is more than just a minor inconvenience. It can also leave your home vulnerable to burglars who could force the lock open and gain access to your property. It is imperative to act as soon you notice that your uPVC handles are breaking down.

Fortunately, it's a fairly simple task to replace your uPVC door handles. You'll need some tools and a few accurate measurements. In the majority of cases, you can simply install your new uPVC handles and you'll be ready to go. But, it's recommended to search for the highest quality handles and locks that are up to the highest security standards.

There are many different types of uPVC handles on the market that you can select from. They include lever/lever, pad, offset and snib handles. Lever/lever handles are very popular with homeowners and comprise of two inline handles that can be moved. Pad uPVC handles are smaller in size and often have an offset design that allows you to keep the outside of your property secure following the entry.

An offset uPVC handle consists of one fixed, and one movable pad. This kind of handle is usually used on sliding door handles patio doors. Snib handles look similar to offset handles, but they can also be used on uPVC French doors.

When selecting a replacement uPVC door handle, you should consider the style of your current windows and doors. The handle should match the colour and finish of your existing doors. Some handles are available in different types of finishes, like white and black. Others are available in more elegant choices, such as gold or chrome.

It's important to get your screw-to-screw and PZ measurements right when taking your measurements. The PZ measurement is a distance between the center of the spindle hole and the centre keyhole. The screw-to-screw measurement is the distance between the screw hole on the existing handle and the nearest screw on the door frame, and it is crucial to measure it accurately to identify a suitable replacement door handles.

Measurement and Fitting

A uPVC door handle comes with two levers, one on each side of the lock mechanism permitting easy operation from inside and out. Providing a comfortable grip and easy-to-use functionality handles are an important element of a door's security mechanism. With the proper set of uPVC handles you can ensure your door is safe from burglars and keep it looking great in the process.

Selecting the right uPVC handle can be a challenge and confusing as there are numerous sizes, shapes, and designs on offer. However, there are three essential dimensions to consider when selecting a replacement for your uPVC doors. These are the backplate fixing centres as well as the key hole and lever size, and the spindle's size. By taking into account these aspects, you will ensure that your new handle will be perfectly fitted to your uPVC doors and ensures the perfect fit.

It is easy to measure these points but you need to be as precise as you can. If you're not careful, you might end having the wrong handle to fit with the existing one, and could cause issues when opening your uPVC door. The most important measurement is the top screw that is on the backplate's fixing centre, often referred to as the PZ size. This is the distance between the axis or handle lever of the keyhole and the centre of screw. This is usually 92mm but it can vary.

It is also important to ensure that your uPVC handles are equipped with the required number of keyspindles to operate your multi-point locking system. The ideal scenario is that they should match the number keys you use to lock or unlock your uPVC door. Certain older doors might have a single spindle to operate the lock, whereas more modern doors will have two spindles to allow for independent operation from both sides.

The final thing you want is a drooping or sagging uPVC door handle because this could cause a huge deal of stress on the locking mechanism within and could lead to broken components. Look for uPVC handles with spring cassettes built in to prevent this. They are not only visually pleasing, but they can also help give your door locking mechanism a longer life span by removing some of the force that operates it.

Broken Spring Cassettes

If a door handle becomes stiff, it is usually caused by a problem within the tubular latch itself. It is usually a straightforward fix that can be accomplished by repositioning your replacement handle's fixing plates that are inside it. Open the door and make sure there aren't any obvious obstructions, such as loose screws or signs that internal parts are poking through the latch plate. If this isn't the case, one of the springs inside your uPVC handles might require a change.

The most efficient method to accomplish this is to purchase a door handle repair kit. This will contain all the tools needed to take the handles off and then reposition their cassettes. Follow the steps to complete the procedure and you'll soon have a sagging / falling uPVC door handle that's once again fully operational.

A floppy uPVC door handle can also be the result of thermal contraction but is usually an indication that the gearbox inside has been damaged. This isn't a problem you can easily repair at home, but it will require the help of an expert locksmith.

If you have to replace the gearbox on your uPVC door it's important that you purchase an authentic replacement to ensure that everything is fitted properly. A cheaper replacement part may lead to issues such as a defective multipoint lock, and less security for your property.

You can also replace the entire uPVC handle and lock mechanism. This will not only fix the sagging issue, but will also ensure that the handle is fully functional and secure. This is not a cheap or quick solution. It will require the removal of your old uPVC handles and replacing them with a new assembly. This is only applicable to double glazed window handle glazing doors with sprung handles, since the door will need to be repaired. You can also purchase a set of handles with springs built in. This will save you time and money.

Can I Fit a uPVC Door Handle to an Aluminium or Timber Door?

When you are choosing doors for your home there are numerous factors to consider. Aluminium doorways are modern and stylish while uPVC is durable, energy efficiency and security. Regarding the style of door you want to fit, the right handle is vital. If you are looking to replace your handles or install new ones, it's essential to choose the appropriate handles for your home. Our uPVC replacement door handle guide will assist you to make the right choice and install it with confidence.

The process of changing the handle on a uPVC door handle is easy and requires just a few tools. First, you'll need to remove the old handle. You can remove the screws holding it in place using a screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the handle away from the door.

Next, you will need to determine the size of your door handle. You will need to locate the middle of the fixing holes on the backplate. This is typically known as the PZ measurement. It will determine the size of the spindle on your handle. Once you know this information, you can purchase the replacement handle that is of the correct size for your door.

There are many different types of uPVC door handle available to meet your specific needs. Some handles are made with additional security features such as anti-drilling protection as well as cylinder guards and mole grips. These uPVC handles can be incorporated into uPVC aluminum, wooden and aluminium doors. They are ideal for those who are looking to increase security in their home.

There are also uPVC handles that are more traditional. They are available in various finishes like gold, black, and chrome. These handles are typically a little bit more expensive than standard double glazed window handles, however they can add a stylish finish to your door.

Once you have picked the appropriate uPVC door handle, it is essential to verify the dimensions prior to ordering. You will need to check the dimensions above, along with the keyhole and lever dimensions and the backplate mounting centres to ensure that your new handle is a good suitable for your door.