UPVC Door Handles Replacement Guide
Once you have the correct measurements, replacing upvc door handles is a simple DIY project. These measurements include the distance from the backplate's mounting centres (sometimes called PZ) to the centre of keyhole.
The most common type of uPVC door handle is one with two levers inline both internal and external that is connected via a spindle. They are used to operate the multipoint lock on uPVC and aluminium doors, and also on some wooden doors.
Brands and finishes
A broken uPVC handle can be much more than a minor inconvenience. It can also make your home vulnerable to burglars who can break the lock and gain entry to your home. It is imperative to act when you notice your uPVC handles are breaking down.
It's an easy task to replace your uPVC door handles. You'll need a few tools and a few careful measurements. In most instances, you'll just need to screw in your new uPVC handles and you'll be ready to go. It is best to pick locks and handles that meet the highest standards of security.
You can choose from a variety of uPVC handles. These include lever/lever, pads, offset and snib handles. Lever/lever handles are a favorite among homeowners and comprise of two movable inline handles. Pad uPVC handles are smaller and feature an offset design. This lets you protect the exterior of your house after entering.
A uPVC offset handle is comprised of two pads one fixed and the other movable. This kind of handle can be found on sliding patio doors. Snib handles are similar to offset handles but can be employed on uPVC french doors.
It is essential to take into account the style of your existing windows and doors when selecting the replacement uPVC handle. The handle should match the color and finish of your existing doors. Certain handles come in a range of finishes such as black and white, while others can be found with more fashionable options like chrome or gold.
It is important to get your screw-to-screw and PZ measurements right when taking your measurements. The PZ measurement is the distance from the center of the hole in the spindle to the center of the keyhole. The screw-to-screw measurement is the distance between the screw hole on the existing handle and the closest screw on the door frame, and it is crucial to measure this accurately to determine the right replacement.
Measurement and Fitting
The uPVC handle is fitted with two levers - one on either side of the lock mechanism which make it easy to operate both from inside and outside. Handles are an essential part of the security mechanism on the door. They provide a comfortable grip, and work without strain. With the proper set of uPVC handles you can ensure your door is safe from intrusions and keep it looking great in the process.
Choosing the correct uPVC handle can be difficult and confusing as there are a variety of sizes, shapes and designs available. There are three essential dimensions to consider when choosing a replacement option for your uPVC doors. The backplate fixing center keyhole and lever dimensions, as well as the spindle's diameter are all crucial measurements. Taking into consideration these factors will ensure that the new handle fits perfectly with your uPVC doors and gives you an ideal fit.
Measuring these points is relatively straightforward, but you should be as precise as you possibly can. If you're not careful you could end having the wrong handle to fit the existing one and could cause issues when opening your uPVC door. The top screw located at the central point of the backplate is the most crucial measurement. This is commonly known as the PZ dimension. This measures from the pivot point of the keyhole or handle lever to the centre of the screw. In general, this is a measurement of 92mm but it could vary.
Check that the uPVC handles on your doors have the right number of keyspindles to match your multi-point locking. Ideally, these should match the number of keys you use to lock and unlock your uPVC doors. Certain older doors might have only one spindle to operate the lock, while more modern doors will have two spindles to allow for independent operation from inside and out.
You shouldn't have a hanging uPVC handle, as this can put an excessive strain on the locking mechanism. This could lead to broken parts. Look for uPVC handles with spring cassettes built in to prevent this. They are not only visually appealing, but they will also help give your door locking mechanism a longer time by removing a portion of the operating force.
Broken Spring Cassettes

A problem with the tubular latch may cause a stiff door handle. It is usually a simple fix that can be solved by repositioning the internal fixing plates of the replacement handle. First take the door off and check that there are no obvious obstructions on the latch plate like loose screws or evidence of internal parts poking through. If door handles Repair My Windows And Doors isn't the situation, it's likely to be one of the spring cassettes in your uPVC handle that may need to be moved.
A door handle repair kit is the most efficient way to accomplish this. It will contain all the tools you need to remove the handles and then move their cassettes. Follow the steps to complete the procedure and you'll soon have a sagging or drooping uPVC door handle that's again fully operational.
A loose uPVC door handle can also be the result of thermal contraction but is more often a sign that the gearbox inside has broken. This isn't an issue that you can fix at home. You will require the assistance of locksmith.
If you do need to replace the gearbox on your uPVC door, make sure you use an authentic replacement to ensure that everything is fitted properly. Using an aftermarket replacement that is less expensive can cause problems, like an insecure lock or lower security for your home.
You could also replace the entire uPVC lock and handle mechanism. This will not only resolve the issue of sagging, but it will also ensure that your handle is completely functional and secure. This is not a cheap or quick solution. It will require the removal of the old uPVC handles and replacing them with a brand new one. It's important to note that this is only suitable for those with a double glazing with a spring-loaded door since the door will have to be replaced with a new drill. For a more cost-effective and quicker alternative, you can buy new handles that are fitted with springs that will remove the need to drill doors.
Can I put a door handle made of uPVC on an aluminum or timber door?
When it comes to selecting doors for your home there are many factors to consider. Aluminum doors are contemporary and attractive and uPVC provides durability as well as energy efficiency and security. In terms of the design of the door you're planning to install, the right handle is vital. It is crucial to select the correct handles for your home, whether you are replacing the handles you have had or installing new ones. Our uPVC replacement door handle guide will assist you make the right decision and install it with confidence.
The process of changing the handle on a uPVC door handle is simple and requires only basic tools. First, you will need to take off the old handle. This can be done by removing the screws which secure it using a screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you can take the handle away from the door.
The next step is to measure the door handle. You will need to locate the centre of the fixing holes on the backplate. This is commonly known as the PZ measurement. It is used to determine the handle spindle size. Once you know this information, you can purchase a replacement handle that is the right size for the door you have.
There are many kinds of uPVC handles to suit your requirements. Some of these handles are designed with extra security features, such as anti-drilling security, cylinder guards, and mole grips. These uPVC handles can be incorporated into uPVC aluminum, wooden and aluminium doors and are ideal for homeowners who want to increase security in their home.
If you are looking for a traditional uPVC handle, there are also choices to meet your preferences. These are available in a variety of finishes such as black, chrome and gold. They're generally more expensive than standard handles however they can add a stylish look to your door.
After you have selected the appropriate uPVC door handle, it's important that you check the dimensions prior to ordering. You will need to check the dimensions listed 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.