A Complete Guide To Upvc Door Handles
UPVC Door Handles Replacement Guide
Once you've got the proper measurements, replacing upvc door handles is a straightforward DIY project. These measurements include the distance from the handle's backplate mounting centres (sometimes called PZ) to the centre of keyhole.
The most common uPVC handle is two inline levers. One is internal and the other exterior, linked via a spindle. They are used to operate the multi-point lock found in uPVC, aluminium and some wooden doors.
Brands and finishes
A damaged uPVC door handle could be more than a minor inconvenience, it can also make your home vulnerable to intruders who might be able force the lock to open and gain entry into your home. It's important to take action as soon you notice that your uPVC handles are failing.
Fortunately, it is an easy task to replace your uPVC door handles. You will only need just a few tools and few precise measurements. In most cases you can simply put in your new uPVC handle and you're ready to go. However, it's always a good idea to look for the top quality locks and handles that are up to the highest security standards.
There are many different types of uPVC handles on the market that you can select from. These include lever/lever, pad handles, offset and snib. Lever/lever handles are very popular with homeowners and comprise of two inline handles that can be moved. Pad uPVC handles are smaller and have an offset design. This allows you to secure the outside of your home following entry.
A uPVC offset handle is comprised of two pads that are fixed, and the other moveable. This type handle is usually found on sliding patio doors. Snib handles are like offset handles, but they can be employed on uPVC french doors.
When you are choosing a replacement uPVC door handle, it's important to think about the style of your current windows and doors. The handle should match the colour and finish of your existing doors. Certain handles come in a range of finishes, including white and black as well as others that can be found with more fashionable choices like chrome or gold.
When measuring it is crucial to be sure to get the screw-to-screw dimensions correct. The PZ measurement is the distance from the central point of the spindle hole to the center of the keyhole. The screw-to-screw dimension represents the distance from the screw hole on your existing handle to the nearest screw in the door frame. It is essential to accurately measure it to locate the correct replacement.
Measurement and Fitting
The uPVC handle comes with two levers, one on each side of the lock mechanism that make it easy to operate both from inside and outside. Handles are an essential component of the security system on doors. They provide a comfortable grip, and they function without strain. With the right uPVC handles, you will be able to keep your door secure and look stunning in the process.
It can be confusing to select the appropriate uPVC handles because there are a variety of sizes and shapes available. But, there are three essential measurements to take into consideration when selecting a replacement for your uPVC doors. These are the backplate fixing centers key hole, lever and lever size and the spindle size. By taking these into consideration, you can ensure that your new handle fits your uPVC door and provides an perfect fit.
It's relatively straightforward, but you should be as accurate as possible. If you're not careful you might end with a handle that doesn't properly fit with the existing one, and could cause issues when opening your uPVC door. The most important measurement is the top screw on the backplate's fixing centre, commonly known as the PZ size. This is the distance between the handle lever or axis of the keyhole and the centre of screw. It is typically 92mm, but it can vary.
Check that the uPVC handles on your doors have the correct number of keyspindles for your multi-point locking. Idealy, they should match the number keys you use to lock or unlock your uPVC door. Certain older doors might only have one spindle that can operate the lock, but more modern doors will feature two spindles, allowing for independent operation from inside and out.
It is not advisable to have a sagging uPVC handle, as this can put a lot of strain on the locking mechanism. This could lead to broken parts. You should look for uPVC handles with spring cassettes built in to prevent this. These aren't just aesthetically pleasing but they reduce the pressure that operates on the door locking mechanism, and can increase its life span.
Broken Spring Cassettes
If a door handle becomes stiff, it is usually caused by a problem in the tubular latch itself. It is usually a simple fix that can be solved by repositioning the fixing plates of your new handle. Open the door and check there aren't any obvious obstructions like loose screws, or indications that internal parts are poking through the latch plate. If this isn't the case, it could be one of the spring cassettes inside your uPVC handle that needs to be relocated.
A door handle repair kit is the simplest way to accomplish this. The kit includes all the tools needed to take the handles off, and then to reposition the cassettes. Follow the steps to do this and you'll soon have a sagging or drooping uPVC door handle that is once again fully operable.
upvc replacement door handles can also be caused by thermal contraction, but it is usually an indication that the gearbox inside is broken. This isn't an issue that you can fix yourself. You will need the help of a locksmith.
If you have to replace the gearbox on your uPVC door, it is essential that you purchase a genuine replacement which will ensure that everything is fitted correctly. If you use an aftermarket component that is cheaper may result in problems, such as the lock being defective or causing less security for your home.

You could also replace the entire uPVC lock and handle mechanism. This will not only fix the sagging issue but it will also ensure that your handle is completely functional and secure. It is important to remember that this isn't a quick or cheap solution and will require the removal of the current uPVC handle and replacement with a completely new one. It's also important to note that this is only suitable for people who have a double glazing with a spring-loaded door since the door will need be re-drilled. For a more cost-effective and quicker option you can always purchase new handles that are fitted with springs, which will eliminate the need to drill the doors.
Can I put a uPVC Door Handle on an Aluminium or Timber Door?
There are a variety of things to think about when selecting doors for your home. Aluminum doors are contemporary and attractive, while uPVC offers durability as well as security and energy efficiency. In terms of the style of door you want to fit the correct handle is essential. It is important to choose the right handles for your property, whether you are replacing your existing ones or adding new ones. Our uPVC replacement door handle guide will assist you to make the right choice and install it with confidence.
The process of changing a uPVC door handle is relatively simple and requires only basic tools. The first step is to take off the old handle. This can be done by removing the screws which hold it in place using a screwdriver. After the screws have been removed, you can remove the handle away from the door.
The next step is to measure the size of the door handle. You'll need to determine the middle of the fixing holes on the backplate. This is often referred to as the PZ measurement. It will determine the size of your handle spindle. Once you have this information, you can purchase the replacement handle that is of the correct size for your door.
There are many kinds of uPVC handles that can be found to meet your needs. Some of these are designed to offer additional security features, such as anti-drill protection, cylinder guards, and mole grips. These uPVC handles can be fitted to uPVC doors, as well as wood and aluminum ones. They are perfect for people who want to increase the security of their home.
There are also uPVC handles that are more traditional. These are available in a range of finishes that include black, chrome and gold. They're generally more expensive than standard handles, but will provide an attractive finish to your door.
It is crucial to determine the dimensions of your chosen uPVC handle before ordering. You'll need to consider the measurements listed above, the lever and key hole dimension, and backplate fixing centres to ensure that the new handle is a good fit for your door.