UPVC Door Handles Replacement Guide
Replacing door handles made of upvc is a simple DIY project once you have the proper measurements. These measurements include the distance between the handle's backplate fixing centres (sometimes called PZ) and the center of the key hole.
The most popular kind of uPVC door handle comes with two levers inline, one internal and one external connected by spindle. They are used to operate the multi-point lock that is found in uPVC as well as aluminium and wooden doors.
Brands & Finishes
A broken uPVC door handle could be more than a minor inconvenience, it could also make your home vulnerable to intruders who could be able to force open the lock and escape into your property. It's important to take action immediately you notice your uPVC handles are breaking down.
Fortunately, replacing your uPVC front door handles is a fairly simple task that requires just a few tools as well as precise measurements. In most cases you can simply put in your new uPVC handle and you're ready to go. However, it's always recommended to search for the highest quality locks and handles that meet the highest security standards.
You can select from a range of uPVC handles. These include lever/lever, pads handles, offset and snib. Lever/lever handles are very popular with homeowners and comprise of two inline handles that can be moved. Pad uPVC handles are smaller and come with an offset design. This lets you secure the exterior of your home after entry.
An offset uPVC handle is comprised of a fixed and one movable pad. This type of handle is found on sliding patio doors. Snib handles resemble offset handles but they can be used on uPVC french doors.
It is important to consider the design of your current doors and windows when choosing 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 are available in a variety of finishes such as black and white, while others are available with more fashionable options like gold or chrome.
It's important to ensure that you have your screw-to-screw and PZ measurements right when taking your measurements. The PZ measurement is the distance from the central point of the spindle hole to the centre of the keyhole. The screw-to-screw dimension represents the distance from the screw hole on your existing handle to the closest screw on your door frame. It is essential to measure it accurately to find the correct replacement.
Measurement and Fitting
A uPVC door handle comes with two levers that are located on either side of the lock mechanism allowing for easy operation both inside and out. Handles are an important element of the security mechanism on the door. They offer a comfortable grip, and work without strain. With the appropriate set of uPVC handles, you can be sure that your door is secure from burglars and also keep it looking beautiful while doing it.
Selecting the right uPVC handle can be a challenge and confusing because there are many different sizes, shapes and styles on offer. When choosing the right handle replacement for your uPVC door, you must take into account three key dimensions. The backplate fixing center keyhole and lever dimensions, as well as the spindle diameter are all important measurements. Taking these into account will ensure that your new handle fits your uPVC door and provides an excellent fit.
The process of measuring these points is fairly simple but you must be as accurate as possible. If you're not careful you could end with the wrong handle to fit the existing one and cause problems when opening your uPVC door. The most important measurement is the top screw on the backplate's fixing centre, often called the PZ size. This is the distance between the axis or handle lever of the keyhole and the central point of screw. This is usually 92mm, but it can vary.
Also, make sure that your uPVC door handles have the required 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. Older doors may have a single spindle to operate the lock, while more modern doors will have two spindles that allow for independent operation from both sides.
The most undesirable thing to have is a sagging or drooping uPVC door handle because this could cause a huge deal of stress on the internal locking mechanism and may result in broken components. You should look for uPVC handles equipped with spring cassettes to prevent this. These are not only aesthetically appealing, but they could also give your door locking mechanism a greater life span by removing some of the operating force.
Broken Spring Cassettes
If a door handle gets stiff, it is usually caused by a fault within the tubular latch itself. It is usually a simple solution and can be solved by repositioning the internal fixing plates of your replacement handle. First, open the door and ensure that there aren't any obvious obstructions on the latch plate like loose screws or indications of internal parts peeking through. If this isn't the case, it could be one of the spring cassettes within your uPVC handle that needs to be relocated.
A door handle repair kit is the simplest way to accomplish this. It will contain all the tools you require to take the handles off and then put them back in their cassettes. Follow the instructions and you'll soon have a a sagging / drooping uPVC handle that is fully operable.
A floppy uPVC handle can be caused by thermal contraction but it is more common to signify that the gearbox is damaged. This isn't something that can be fixed at home and will require the help of a locksmith expert.
It is crucial to select a genuine replacement gearbox to your uPVC doors. This will ensure everything is properly installed. Using an aftermarket part that is less expensive could cause problems, such as the lock being defective or causing less security for your home.
You can also replace the whole uPVC handle and lock mechanism. This will not only resolve the issue of sagging, but also ensure that the handle is functional and secure. This isn't a cheap or quick fix. It requires the removal of your old uPVC handles and the replacement with a new assembly. It's also worth mentioning that this option is only suitable for people who have a sprung handled double glazing door since the door will need be replaced with a new drill. You can also buy handles that have springs built-in. This will save you time and money.
Can I install 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 home. Upvc doors are durable, security and energy efficiency whilst aluminium doors are modern and pleasing to the eye. The correct handle is essential for the type of door that you want to install. It is crucial to select the correct handles for your property regardless of whether you're replacing the handles you have had or adding new ones. Our uPVC door handle replacement guide will help you make the right choice and install them with confidence.
Changing the handle of a uPVC door handle is easy and requires just a few tools. First, you'll need to take off the old handle. This can be accomplished by removing the screws that keep it in place with a screwdriver. After the screws have been removed, it is possible to take the handle away from the door.
Next, you will need to determine the size of the door handle. You'll need to find the center 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 have this information, you'll be able to purchase a door handle replacement that is the right size.
There are many different types of uPVC handles available to meet your needs. Some of them are designed to offer additional security features, such as anti-drill protection, cylinder guards, and mole grips. These uPVC handle designs can be fitted to uPVC, aluminium and wooden doors, and are perfect for homeowners who want to increase security in their home.
If you're seeking a more traditional uPVC handle There are other options to suit your taste. These are available in a range of finishes that include black, chrome and gold. They are typically a little more expensive than standard handles but can add a stylish look to your door.
It is important to check the dimensions of your chosen uPVC handle before ordering. You will need to take the measurements listed above as well as the key hole and lever dimension, and the backplate fixing centres to ensure that the new handle is a good match for your door.