UPVC Door Handles Replacement Guide
Once you have the right measurements, replacing your upvc door handles is a simple DIY project. These measurements include the distance between the backplate's fixing centres (sometimes referred to as PZ) and the center of the key hole.
The most common uPVC handle has two inline levers. One is internal and the other exterior, connected with a spindle. They operate the multipoint lock that is found on uPVC and aluminium doors, and also on some wooden ones.
Brands & finishes
A damaged uPVC door handle can be more than an inconvenience. It can also make your home vulnerable to burglars who might be able break the lock and enter your home. This is why it's important to recognise the moment your uPVC door handles are starting to fail and take action as soon as you can.
It's good to know that replacing your uPVC handles on your front door is a relatively simple task that only requires a few tools and some careful measurements. In the majority of cases, you'll simply put in your new uPVC handle and you're ready to go. However, it's recommended to search for the highest quality locks and handles that have the highest security standards.
You can select from a range of uPVC handles. They include lever/lever, pad, offset and snib handles. Lever/lever handles, which consist of two inline handles that can be moved are very popular among homeowners. Pad uPVC handles are smaller in size, and typically feature an offset design that permits you to keep the exterior of your home secure after entry.
A uPVC offset handle consists of two pads, one fixed and the second one movable. This type handle is generally used on sliding patio doors. Snib handles resemble offset handles, however they can also be used on uPVC French doors.
It is important to consider 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 are available in different types of finishes, like white and black. Other handles come with more fashionable options, like gold or chrome.
When measuring, it's vital to be sure to get the screw-to-screw dimensions right. The PZ measurement is a distance between the middle of the spindle hole and the center keyhole. The screw-to-screw dimension is the distance between the screw hole on your existing handle and the closest screw on the door frame, and it's crucial to accurately measure this in order to find an appropriate replacement.
Measurement and Fitting
The uPVC handle comes with two levers - one on each side of the lock mechanism - which make it easy to operate from both inside and out. With a comfortable grip and easy-to-use functionality they are an important element of a door's security mechanism. With the right set of uPVC handles, you can make sure your door is safe from burglars and maintain its attractive appearance at the same time.
Selecting the right uPVC handle can be difficult and confusing as there are many different sizes, shapes and designs available. When selecting a replacement handle for your uPVC door, you must take into account three key dimensions. These are the backplate fixing centers key hole, lever and lever dimensions, and the spindle's diameter. Taking these into account will ensure that your new handle is compatible with your uPVC door and gives you an excellent fit.
It is easy to measure these points but you need to be as accurate as you can. You could end up with a handle which doesn't fit correctly and causes problems when opening your uPVC doors. The most important measurement is the top screw on the backplate fixing centre, often referred to as the PZ size. This is the distance between the axis or handle lever of the keyhole and the center of screw. Generally speaking upvc replacement door handles is an measurement of 92mm however it may vary.
Also, make sure that your uPVC door handles have the correct number of keyspindles to operate your multi-point locking system. The ideal scenario is that they should be the same as the keys you use to lock or unlock your uPVC door. Some older doors use a single spindle that locks the lock. Modern doors have two spindles that allow independent operation both inside and out.
The most undesirable thing to have is a sagging or drooping uPVC door handle as this can cause a great deal of stress on the internal locking mechanism and could lead to broken components. Try to find uPVC handles that have spring cassettes built-in to avoid this. These are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they can also help give your door locking mechanism a longer time by removing a portion of the force that operates it.
Broken Spring Cassettes
A problem with the tubular latch can cause a stiff door handle. It is usually a simple fix and can be resolved by repositioning the fixing plates of your replacement handle. First open the door and make sure 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 may need to be relocated.
The simplest way to do this is to purchase a door handle repair kit. This will contain all the tools you require to remove the handles and then reposition their cassettes. Simply follow the instructions to complete the procedure and you'll soon have a sagging / falling uPVC door handle that's again fully functional.
A loose uPVC door handle can also be due to thermal contraction, but it is more often a sign that the gearbox inside has been damaged. This isn't a problem that you can fix yourself. You will need the help of a locksmith.
It is essential to choose a genuine replacement gearbox to your uPVC doors. This will ensure that everything is installed correctly. Using a cheaper aftermarket part could result in problems such as a faulty multipoint lock and reduced security for your home.
Another option is replacing the entire uPVC handle mechanism and lock. This will not only solve the sagging issue but 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 your existing uPVC handle and replacing it with an entirely new assembly. It's important to note that this is only really suitable for those who have an sprung-handled double glazing door, as the door will need to be replaced with a new drill. You can also buy a set of handles with springs that are built in. This will save your time and money.
Can I Fit a uPVC Door Handle to an aluminium or timber door?
When it comes to selecting doors for your home there are many factors to consider. Aluminum doors are contemporary and stylish while uPVC is durable, security and energy efficiency. Regarding the style of door you're planning to install the correct handle is crucial. It is important to choose the appropriate handles for your home, whether you are replacing your old ones or installing new ones. Our uPVC replacement door handle guide will assist you make the right choice and install it with confidence.
Changing the handle of a uPVC handle is fairly simple and requires only a few tools. The first step is to take off the handle that was previously in use. You can remove the screws that hold it in place with a screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you can take the handle from the door.
You'll then have to take a measurement of the door handle. You will need to locate the middle of the fixing holes on the backplate. This is often referred to as the PZ measurement. It determines the size of the handle spindle. Once you know this information, you will be able to buy an alternative door handle that is of the correct size.
There are many kinds of uPVC handles that can be found to meet your needs. Some are designed to provide extra security features like anti-drill, cylinder guards and mole grips. These uPVC handles are able to be installed on uPVC or aluminium doors. They are ideal for those looking for increased security for their home.
There are also uPVC handles that are more traditional. They are available in various finishes like black, chrome and gold. They are typically a little more expensive than standard handles however they can add a stylish look to your door.
Once you have picked a suitable uPVC door handle, it's important to verify the dimensions prior to placing an order. You must verify the dimensions listed above, along with the lever and keyhole dimension and the backplate mounting centres to ensure that your new handle is the right one for your door.