UPVC Door Handles Replacement Guide
Replacing door handles made of upvc is a simple DIY project when you have the right measurements. These measurements include the distance from the handle's backplate mounting centres (sometimes called PZ) to the central point of keyhole.
The most popular type of uPVC door handle has two levers inline, one internal and one external, connected by spindles. They are used to operate the multi-point lock which is used in uPVC aluminum, uPVC and a few wooden doors.
upvc door handles and Finishes
A broken uPVC handle could be more than a minor inconvenience. It can also leave your home vulnerable to burglars who could force the lock open and gain entry to your property. This is why it's crucial to recognise the moment your uPVC door handles are starting to fall apart and act as quickly as you can.
Fortunately, it is quite simple to replace your uPVC door handles. You will only need a few tools and a few precise measurements. In the majority of cases, you can simply screw in your new uPVC handles and you'll be good to go. But, it's best to look for the top quality locks and handles that have the highest security standards.
You can choose from a variety of uPVC handles. There are a number of varieties, including lever/lever handles, pad handles, offset handles and snib handles. Lever/lever handles are popular with homeowners and are comprised of two inline handles that can be moved. Pad uPVC handle are smaller and have an offset design. This allows you to secure the outside of your home after entry.
An offset uPVC handle consists of a fixed and one movable pad. This type handle is generally used on sliding patio doors. Snib handles are similar to offset handles but they can be employed on uPVC french doors.
When choosing your replacement uPVC door handle, you must consider the style of your current windows and doors. The handle should match the color and style of your doors. Certain handles are available in different types of finishes, like black and white. Others are available with more fashionable choices, such as chrome or gold.
It is crucial to make sure that you get your screw-to-screw as well as PZ measurements correct when you're taking measurements. 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 in the door frame. It is essential to accurately measure it to locate the correct replacement.
Measurement and Fitting
A uPVC door handle is equipped with two levers that are located on either side of the lock mechanism, permitting easy operation both inside and out. Offering a comfortable grip as well as strain-free functionality, the handles are also an important element of the door's security mechanisms. With the right uPVC handles, you will be able to ensure your door is secure and look great at the same.
Selecting the right uPVC handle can be difficult and confusing because there are numerous sizes, shapes and styles on offer. However, there are three key measurements to take into consideration when choosing a replacement option for your uPVC doors. The backplate fixing center as well as the keyhole and lever dimensions, as well as the spindle's diameter are all crucial measurements. Incorporating these elements will ensure that your new handle is perfectly matched to your uPVC doors and provides the perfect fit.
It's easy to measure these points, but you need to be as accurate as you can. If you're not careful, you could end up with an unfit handle that doesn't match the existing one and cause problems when opening your uPVC door. The top screw at the center of the backplate is the most crucial measurement. This is commonly known as the PZ dimension. This is the distance between the axis or handle lever of the keyhole and the centre of the screw. This is usually 92mm, however it is possible to vary.
You should also check that your uPVC handles are equipped with the required number of keyspindles to operate your multi-point locking system. It is ideal that they be in line with the number of keys that you use to lock and unlock your uPVC doors. Some older doors have only one spindle to lock. Modern doors come with two spindles that permit independent operation both inside and outside.
The last thing you want is a drooping or sagging uPVC door handle because it can put a great amount of stress to the internal locking mechanism and potentially result in broken components. You should look for uPVC handles that have spring cassettes built-in to prevent this. These aren't just aesthetically pleasing but they also reduce the operating pressure from the door locking mechanism and can increase its 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 straightforward fix that can be accomplished by repositioning the replacement handle's fixing plates inside the handle. First take the door off and make sure there aren't any obvious obstructions on the latch plate, such as 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 inside your uPVC handle which may need to be relocated.
A door handle repair kit is the simplest method to do this. This kit will include all the tools needed to remove the handles and then reposition them. Follow the instructions and you'll soon have the drooping or sagging uPVC handle that is fully functional.
A loose uPVC door handle can also be due to thermal contraction but is more commonly a sign that the gearbox inside has been damaged. This isn't a problem that you can fix at home. You will require the assistance 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 an aftermarket replacement that is cheaper may cause problems, such as an insecure lock or lower security for your home.
You can also replace the whole uPVC lock and handle mechanism. This will not only resolve the issue of sagging, but will also make sure that the door handle is functional and secure. It is important to remember that this isn't an easy or cheap solution and will involve the removal of your existing uPVC handle and replacing it with a brand new handle. This is only suitable for double-glazed doors that have sprung handles, as the door will have to be redrilled. For a more cost-effective and quicker option you can always purchase a new set of handles that have built-in springs that will remove the need to drill doors.
Can I fit a uPVC door handle on an aluminium or timber door?
There are many things to take into consideration when choosing the right doors for your house. Upvc doors are durable as well as security, and energy efficiency. aluminum doors are modern and attractive. The right handle is crucial for the type of door you'd like to install. It is important to choose the right handles for your home whether you are replacing your old ones or installing new ones. Our uPVC door handle replacement guide will assist you in making the right choice and install them with confidence.
The process of changing a uPVC door handle is relatively simple and requires only a few tools. First, you will need to remove the handle that was previously in use. This can be accomplished by removing the screws which keep it in place with a screwdriver. After the screws have been removed, you can remove the handle from the door.
The next step is to measure the door handle. You'll need to find the centre of the fixing holes on the backplate. This is often called PZ measurement. It determines the handle spindle size. Once you know this information, you can buy the replacement handle that is the right size for your door.
There are several different types of uPVC door handles to suit your individual requirements. Some of these handles are designed with additional security features such as anti-drilling protection and cylinder guards as well as mole grips. These uPVC handles can be fitted to uPVC aluminum, wooden and aluminium doors, and are perfect for those looking for increased security in their home.
If you're looking for a more traditional uPVC handle there are many options that will suit your needs. They are available in a variety of finishes that include black, chrome and gold. These handles are usually a bit more costly than standard ones, but they will provide a beautiful look to your door.
It is crucial to determine the dimensions of the uPVC handle prior to placing an order. You should verify the dimensions above, along with the keyhole and lever dimensions and the backplate mounting centre to ensure that your new handle is the perfect one for your door.