UPVC Door Handles Replacement Guide
Replacing upvc door handles is a straightforward DIY project when you have the right measurements. These measurements include the distance between the backplate of the handle's fixing centres (sometimes referred to as PZ) and the centre of the key hole.
The most common type of uPVC door handle is one with two levers inline, one internal and one external, connected by a spindle. They are used to operate the multipoint lock that is found on uPVC and aluminium doors as well as some wooden doors.
Brands and Finishes
A damaged uPVC door handle can be more than a minor inconvenience. It can also make your home vulnerable to intruders who may be able to break the lock and enter your home. It is imperative to act immediately you notice your uPVC handles are failing.
Fortunately, it's an easy task to replace your uPVC door handles. You will only need just a few tools and few careful measurements. In the majority of cases, you'll simply put in your new uPVC handle and you're ready to go. It's always best to choose locks and handles that are of the highest standard of security.
There are a number of different types of uPVC handles on the market that you can pick from. There are many different types that include lever handles, pad handles, offset handles, and snib handle. Lever/lever handles, which consist of two handles inline that can be moved, are very popular among homeowners. Pad uPVC handle are smaller and have an offset design. This lets you protect the exterior of your home after entry.
A uPVC offset handle is made up of two pads one fixed and the other movable. This kind of handle can be found on sliding patio doors. Snib handles are like offset handles but can be employed on uPVC french doors.
It is essential to take into account the style of your current doors and windows when choosing the replacement uPVC handle. The handle must be in line with your existing doors in terms of color and finish. Certain handles come in various types of finishes, like black and white. Others are available with more fashionable choices, such as gold or chrome.
When taking your measurements it is crucial to ensure that you have the screw-to-screw and PZ dimensions right. The PZ measurement is the distance between the center of the spindle hole as well as the centre 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 is essential to measure it accurately in order to find the correct replacement.
Measurement and Fitting
The uPVC handle is equipped with two levers, one on each side of the lock mechanism which makes it easy to operate both from inside and outside. Providing a comfortable grip and easy-to-use functionality, the handles are also an important part of the door's security mechanisms. With the right uPVC handles, you'll be able to keep your door secure and look great in the process.
It can be difficult to select the best uPVC handles because there are a variety of sizes and shapes to choose from. There are three main dimensions to consider when choosing a replacement for your uPVC doors. The backplate fixing center as well as the keyhole and lever dimension, and the spindle diameter are all crucial measurements. By taking into account these aspects, you will ensure that your new handle will be perfectly fitted to your uPVC doors and provides a perfect fit.
It is easy to measure these points but you need to be as accurate as you can. You could end having a handle that doesn't fit correctly and could cause issues when opening your uPVC doors. The top screw located at the central point of the backplate is the most important measurement. This is commonly known as the PZ dimension. This is the distance between the handle lever or axis of the keyhole and the centre of screw. Generally speaking, this is a measurement of 92mm but it could vary.
Make sure that the uPVC handles on your doors have the right number of keyspindles that you need for your multi-point locking. door handle repairs near me is ideal if they be in line with the number of keys you use to lock or unlock your uPVC door. Some older doors use a single spindle to lock. Modern doors come with two spindles that permit independent operation both inside and outside.
It is not advisable to have a sagging uPVC handle, as this can put the stress on the locking mechanism. This could lead to broken components. To avoid this, look for an assortment of uPVC door handles with built-in spring cassettes. These aren't just aesthetically pleasing but they remove some of the operating pressure from the door locking mechanism, and will give it a much longer lifespan.
Broken Spring Cassettes

When a door handle becomes stiff, it could be caused by a problem in the tubular latch itself. It is usually a simple fix that can be solved by repositioning internal fixing plates of the replacement handle. First take the door off and ensure that there aren't any obvious obstructions to the latch plate, such as loose screws or evidence of internal parts that are visible. If this isn't the situation, it's likely to be one of the spring cassettes inside your uPVC handle that needs to be relocated.
The easiest way to do this is to buy a door handle repair kit. This kit will include all the tools required to remove the handles and then to reposition the cassettes. Follow the instructions and you'll soon have an elongated or drooping uPVC handle that is fully operable.
A floppy uPVC door handle could be caused by thermal contraction, but it is more often a sign that the gearbox inside is been damaged. This isn't an issue that you can fix at home. You will need the help of a locksmith.
It is important to use a genuine replacement gearbox to your uPVC doors. This will ensure that everything is properly installed. Using an aftermarket part that is cheaper may cause problems, like an insecure lock or lower security for your home.
Another option to consider is replacing the whole uPVC handle mechanism and lock. This will not only fix the issue of sagging, but also ensure that your handle is completely functional and secure. This is not a cheap or quick solution. It requires the removal of the old uPVC handles and the replacement with a brand new one. It's also worth mentioning that this is only suitable for people who have a sprung handled double glazing door, as the door will have to be replaced with a new drill. For a quicker and cheaper option, you can purchase new handles that have built-in springs, which will remove the need to drill doors.
Can I install a uPVC door handle on an aluminum or timber door?
When you are choosing doors for your home, there are numerous factors to consider. Aluminium doorways are modern and appealing and uPVC provides durability, energy efficiency, and security. Regarding the style of door you're planning to install the appropriate handle is essential. It is essential to select the correct handles for your property whether you are replacing the handles you have had or adding new ones. Our uPVC door handle replacement guide will help you make the best decision and install them with confidence.
Switching the handle of a uPVC handle is relatively easy and only requires basic tools. The first step is to take off the handle that was previously in use. It is possible to remove the screws holding it in place by using a screwdriver. After the screws have been removed, you can remove the handle from the door.
Next, you will need to determine the size of your door handle. You'll need to determine the center of the fixing holes on the backplate. This is commonly known as the PZ measurement and determines the size of your handle spindle. Once you know this information, you will be able to purchase an alternative door handle that is of the correct size.
There are a variety of types of uPVC handles available to meet your requirements. Some handles are made with extra security features, such as anti-drilling protection, cylinder guards, and mole grips. These uPVC handles can be incorporated into uPVC aluminum, wooden and aluminium doors, and are perfect for homeowners who want to increase security for their home.
There are also uPVC handles that are more traditional. They come in a variety of finishes including gold, black, and chrome. These handles are typically a bit more costly than standard handles, however they will provide a beautiful finish to your door.
Once you have picked the appropriate uPVC door handle, it's important that you check the dimensions prior to ordering. You will need to take the measurements mentioned above including the lever and key hole dimension, and backplate fixing centres to ensure that the new handle is a perfect fit for your door.