UPVC Door Handles Replacement Guide
Once you have the right measurements, replacing upvc door handles is a straightforward DIY project. These measurements include the distance between the handle's backplate fixing centres (sometimes called PZ) and the center of the key hole.
The most commonly used kind of uPVC door handle comes with two levers inline, one internal and one external connected by a spindle. They operate the multipoint lock that is found on uPVC and aluminium doors and also on some wooden doors.
Brands & finishes
A damaged uPVC handle is more than a minor inconvenience. It can also make your home vulnerable to burglars who could force the lock open and gain access to your home. It is imperative to act immediately you notice your uPVC handles are deteriorating.
Fortunately, it's quite simple to replace your uPVC door handles. You'll need some tools and a few accurate measurements. In the majority of cases, you can simply screw in your new uPVC handles and you'll be good go. However, it's always recommended to search for the highest quality handles and locks that meet the highest security standards.
There are a number of different types of uPVC handles available that you can pick from. There are a number of varieties that include lever handles, pad handles, offset handles and snib handles. Lever/lever handles consist of two inline handles which can be moved are a favorite among homeowners. Pad uPVC handles are smaller in size and often feature an offset design that allows you to keep the outside of your property secure after entry.
A uPVC offset handle consists of two pads that are fixed, and the other moveable. This kind handle is generally used on sliding patio doors. Snib handles are similar to offset handles, but they can also be used 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 will need to be in line with your doors' existing ones in terms of colour and finish. Certain handles come with a variety of finishes that include black and white and others are available in more elegant choices like gold or chrome.
It's important to ensure that you have your screw-to-screw and PZ measurements correct when taking your measurements. The PZ measurement is a distance between the centre of spindle hole as well as the centre keyhole. The screw-to-screw dimension is the distance between the screw hole on the existing handle and the closest screw on the door frame, and it's crucial to accurately measure this in order to find the right 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. With a comfortable grip and stress-free operation they are an essential part of a door's security mechanisms. With the right uPVC handles, you can keep your door secure and stylish at the same.
It can be difficult to select the appropriate uPVC handles because there are a variety of sizes and shapes to choose from. When selecting the right handle replacement for your uPVC door, you should be aware of three crucial measurements. These are the backplate fixing centers, lever and key hole dimensions, and the spindle's diameter. Incorporating these factors will ensure that the new handle is compatible with your uPVC door and gives you an perfect fit.
It's relatively easy, but you need to be as precise as you can. If you're not careful you may end having a handle that doesn't properly fit the existing one and could cause issues when opening your uPVC door. The most important measurement is the top screw that is on the backplate's fixing centre, which is commonly called the PZ size. This is the distance between the handle lever or axis of the keyhole and the central point of 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. Ideally, they should match the number of keys that you use to lock and unlock your uPVC doors. Some older doors use a single spindle to lock. Modern doors come with two spindles that permit independent operation both indoors and outdoors.
The most undesirable thing to have is a sagging or drooping uPVC door handle because it can put a great deal of stress on the locking mechanism within and potentially result in broken components. To avoid this, search for a set of uPVC door handles with built-in spring cassettes. They are not only visually appealing, but they could also give your door locking mechanism a longer life duration by removing some of the force that operates it.
Broken Spring Cassettes
If a door handle becomes stiff, it is usually caused by a fault within the tubular latch itself. This is usually a straightforward solution and can be solved by repositioning internal fixing plates of the replacement handle. Open the door and ensure there aren't any obvious obstructions, such as loose screws, or indications that internal components are protruding through the latch plate. If this is not the case, then one of the springs in your uPVC handles could require a change.
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 to reposition the cassettes. Follow the instructions to complete the procedure and you'll soon have a sagging, drooping uPVC door handle that's again fully operational.
A floppy uPVC handle could be caused by thermal contraction, but it is more common to mean that the gearbox has failed. This isn't something you can easily repair at home and will require the assistance of a locksmith expert.
It is crucial to select an authentic replacement gearbox for your uPVC doors. This will ensure everything is properly installed. If you use an aftermarket component that is less expensive could cause problems, like the lock being defective or causing less security for your home.
Another option is replacing the whole uPVC handle mechanism and lock. This will not only resolve the issue of sagging, but will also ensure that your door handle is fully operational and secure. This isn't a cheap or quick fix. It requires the removal of the old uPVC handles and replacing them with a new assembly. It's important to note that this is only suitable for those who have a double glazing with a spring-loaded door as the door will have to be repaired. You can also purchase handles that have springs built-in. This will save your time and money.
Can I Fit a uPVC Door Handle on an aluminum or timber door?
There are many things to take into consideration when choosing the right doors for your home. Doors made of aluminum are modern and appealing while uPVC is durable, energy efficiency and security. The right handle is crucial for the style of door you wish to install. If you're looking to replace your existing handles or even add new ones, it's crucial to select the right one for your property. Our uPVC replacement door handle guide will help you to make the right choice and install it with confidence.
Switching a uPVC door handle is relatively simple and requires only a few tools. First, you'll have to remove the current handle. You can remove the screws holding it in place using a screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you can remove the handle from the door.
The next step is to measure the dimensions of the door handle. To measure this, you'll be required to determine the centre of the back plate fixing holes. This is commonly referred to as PZ measurement. It determines the spindle size of the handle. Once you know this information, you can buy an alternative handle that is the correct size for the door you have.
There are a variety of different kinds of uPVC door handles to meet your specific needs. Some of them are designed to offer additional security features like anti-drill, cylinder guards, and mole grips. These uPVC handles can be fitted to uPVC doors as well as wood and aluminium ones. They are perfect for people who want to enhance the security of 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 including gold, black and chrome. These handles are typically a little bit more expensive than standard handles, however they will provide a beautiful look to your door.
Once you have picked a suitable uPVC door handle, it is important that you check the dimensions prior to placing an order. You must verify the dimensions mentioned above, along with the lever and keyhole dimension and the backplate mounting centres, to ensure that your new handle is the right suitable for your door.