A Complete Guide To Upvc Door Handles Dos And Don'ts
UPVC Door Handles Replacement Guide
Once you've got the proper measurements, replacing your upvc door handle is a simple DIY project. These measurements include the distance between the handle's backplate fixing centres (sometimes called PZ) and the centre of the key hole.
The most popular uPVC handle is two inline levers. One inside and one exterior, linked with a spindle. They are used to operate the multipoint lock found on uPVC and aluminium doors along with some wooden doors.
Brands & Finishes
A broken uPVC handle could be more than just a minor inconvenience. It can also leave your home vulnerable to burglars who may break the lock and gain access to your home. This is the reason it's essential to be aware of the moment your uPVC door handles are starting to fall apart and act as quickly as possible.
Fortunately, changing your uPVC front door handles is a relatively simple task that only requires the use of a few tools and careful measurements. In the majority of cases, you'll just screw in your new uPVC handle and you're good to go. However, it's always best to look for the highest quality handles and locks that have the highest security standards.
There are many different types of uPVC handles on the market that you can pick from. There are many different kinds that include lever handles, pad handles, offset handles and snib handles. Lever/lever handles are very popular with homeowners and are comprised of two movable inline handles. Pad uPVC handles are smaller and feature an offset design. This lets you secure the exterior of your house after entering.
A uPVC offset handle consists of two pads one fixed and the second one movable. This type handle is typically used on sliding patio doors. Snib handles resemble offset handles but can be utilized on uPVC french doors.
When you are choosing a replacement uPVC door handle, it's important to take into consideration the style of your current windows and doors. The handle will need to be in line with your doors' existing ones in terms of colour and finish. 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.
When taking your measurements, it's vital to get the PZ and screw-to-screw dimensions right. The PZ measurement is the distance from the center of the hole in the spindle to the centre of the keyhole. The screw-to screw dimension is the distance from the screw hole of your current handle to the closest screw on the door frame. It's important to measure it accurately in order to locate a replacement.
Measurement and Fitting
A uPVC door handle has two levers, one on each side of the lock mechanism allowing for easy operation both from the inside and outside. Handles are an essential part of the security mechanism on doors. They provide a comfortable grip and work without effort. With the appropriate set of uPVC handles, you can make sure your door is secure from intruders and keep it looking great in the process.
It can be confusing to select the appropriate uPVC handles because there are numerous sizes and shapes to choose from. However, there are three key measurements to be considered when choosing a replacement option for your uPVC doors. These are the backplate fixing centres key hole, lever and lever size, and the spindle's size. Taking into consideration these factors will ensure that your new handle is perfectly matched to your uPVC doors and ensures the perfect fit.
It's simple to measure these points however, you must be as precise as you can. If you're not careful you may end up with a handle that doesn't properly fit the existing one and cause problems when opening your uPVC door. The most important measurement is the top screw that is on the backplate's fixing centre, commonly referred to as the PZ size. This is the distance between the axis or handle lever of the keyhole and the central point of the screw. Generally speaking it is an amount of 92mm, however it can vary slightly.
Make sure that the uPVC handles on your doors have the correct number of keyspindles to match your multi-point locking. Ideally, they should be the same as the number of keys that you use to lock and unlock your uPVC doors. Some older doors have only one spindle to lock. More modern doors have two spindles that allow independent operation both inside and outside.
The final thing you want is a sagging or drooping uPVC door handle because this could cause a huge amount of stress on the locking mechanism inside and may result in broken components. You should look for uPVC handles that have spring cassettes built-in to prevent this. They're not just attractive, but they reduce the pressure that operates on the door locking mechanism and will increase its lifespan.
Broken Spring Cassettes

If a door handle becomes stiff, it could be caused by a problem within the tubular latch itself. This is usually a straightforward fix and can be resolved by repositioning internal fixing plates of the replacement handle. First open the door and ensure that there aren't any obvious obstructions on the latch plate like loose screws or signs of internal parts that are visible. If this isn't the situation, it's likely to be one of the spring cassettes within your uPVC handle that needs to be relocated.
The most efficient method to accomplish this is to buy a door handle repair kit. The kit will come with all the tools needed to take the handles off, and then to reposition the cassettes. Follow the instructions and you'll soon have a an elongated or drooping uPVC handle that is fully operable.
A floppy uPVC handle can be caused by thermal contraction but it's more likely to signify that the gearbox has failed. This isn't something you can easily repair at home and will require the assistance of an expert locksmith.
If you have to replace the gearbox on your uPVC door, it is essential that you choose a genuine replacement which will ensure that everything is installed correctly. If you use an aftermarket component that is less expensive can cause problems, like an insecure lock or lower security for your home.
You can also replace the entire uPVC handle and lock mechanism. This will not only resolve the sagging issue but it will also ensure that your handle is fully functional and secure. This is not a cheap or quick solution. It requires the removal of your old uPVC handles and the replacement with a brand new one. This is only applicable to double-glazed doors that have sprung handles, as the door will need to be redrilled. For a more cost-effective and quicker option you can always purchase a new set of handles that come with built-in springs which should eliminate the need to drill the doors.
Can I put a uPVC Door Handle to an Aluminium or Timber Door?
When you are choosing doors for your home there are numerous factors to consider. uPVC doors provide durability, security, and energy efficiency. aluminium doors are modern and attractive. Regarding the style of door you're planning to install the appropriate handle is crucial. It is essential to select the correct handles for your home regardless of whether you're replacing the handles you have had or installing new ones. Our uPVC door handle replacement guide will help you make the best decision and install them with confidence.
The process of changing a uPVC handle is fairly simple and requires only basic tools. You will first need to remove the existing handle. This can be done by removing the screws which secure it using a screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, it is possible to take the handle away from the door.
You will then need to take a measurement of the door handle. To accomplish this, you'll be required to determine the centre of the back plate fixing holes. This is often referred to as the PZ measurement. It determines the size of your handle spindle. If you are aware of this information, you'll be able to purchase a door handle replacement that is the right size.
There are many different types of uPVC handles available to meet your requirements. Some of these handles come with extra security features, such as anti-drilling security and cylinder guards as well as mole grips. These uPVC handles can be fitted to uPVC doors and aluminium and wood ones. They are ideal for those looking to enhance the security of their home.
If you're looking for a traditional uPVC handle There are other options to suit your taste. These can be found in a variety of finishes including gold, black and chrome. They are generally a little bit more expensive than standard handles, however they will provide a beautiful look to your door.
After you have selected the appropriate uPVC door handle, it is essential to check the dimensions before ordering. You'll need to take the measurements mentioned above including the lever and key hole dimensions, as well as the backplate fixing centers to ensure that the new handle is a perfect match for your door.