UPVC Door Handles Replacement Guide
Replacing door handles made of upvc is a straightforward DIY project once you have the proper measurements. These measurements include the distance from the backplate of the handle's mounting centres (sometimes called PZ) to the centre of keyhole.
The most commonly used uPVC handle is two inline levers. One internal and one exterior, linked with a spindle. They operate the multipoint lock found on uPVC and aluminium doors, as well as some wooden ones.
Brands and Finishes
A broken uPVC handle is more than a minor inconvenience. It can also make your home vulnerable to burglars who could make the lock open and gain entry to your home. This is why it's crucial to recognise the moment your uPVC door handles are starting to fail and act as soon as possible.
Fortunately, it's a fairly simple task to replace your uPVC door handles. You will only need some tools and a few careful measurements. In the majority of cases, you can simply screw in your new uPVC handles and you'll be ready to go. It is always recommended to select locks and handles that are of the highest standard of security.
There are many different types of uPVC handles available that you can pick from. These include lever/lever, pads handles, offset and snib. Lever/lever handles consist of two handles inline that can be moved are very popular among homeowners. Pad uPVC handles are smaller and feature an offset design. This lets you secure the exterior of your home following entry.
An offset uPVC handle is comprised of a fixed pad and one movable pad. This kind of handle is usually used on sliding patio doors. Snib handles are similar to offset handles, but they can also be used on uPVC French doors.
When selecting a replacement uPVC door handle, you must take into consideration the style of your current doors and windows. The handle should match the color and finish of your doors. Certain handles come with a variety of finishes, including white and black and others are available in more elegant choices like gold or chrome.
When taking your measurements it is crucial to be sure to get the screw-to-screw dimensions right. The PZ measurement refers to the distance between the middle of the spindle hole as well as the centre keyhole. The screw-to-screw dimension is the distance between the screw hole on your existing handle and the nearest screw on your door frame, and it's important to accurately measure this to determine a suitable replacement.
Measurement and Fitting
A uPVC door handle has two levers that are located on either side of the lock mechanism permitting easy operation both inside and out. Handles are a crucial element of the security mechanism on doors. They offer a comfortable grip, and they work without effort. With the proper uPVC handles, you can ensure that your door is safe and look great in the process.
Selecting the right uPVC handle can be a challenge and confusing because there are numerous sizes, shapes and designs available. But, there are three key measurements to be considered when choosing a replacement option for your uPVC doors. These are the backplate fixing centres as well as the key hole and lever dimensions, and the spindle's diameter. By taking these into consideration, you can make sure that your new handle is a good fit for your uPVC door and gives you an perfect fit.
Measuring these points is relatively simple but you must be as precise as you can. If you're not careful you may end having an unfit handle that doesn't match the existing one and cause problems when opening your uPVC door. The top screw in the centre of the backplate is the most important measurement. It is also referred to as the PZ dimension. This is measured from the pivot point of the keyhole or handle lever to the center of the screw. It is typically 92mm, however it is possible to vary.
You should also check that your uPVC handles are equipped with the number of keyspindles required to operate your multi-point locking system. Ideally, these should be in line with the number of keys you use to lock and unlock your uPVC doors. Some older doors may only have one spindle that can operate the lock, whereas more modern doors will have two spindles that allow for independent operation from both sides.
The final thing you want is a sagging or drooping uPVC door handle because this could cause a huge amount of stress to the internal locking mechanism and could lead to broken parts. Try to find uPVC handles with spring cassettes built in to avoid this. These aren't just aesthetically pleasing but they also reduce the operating pressure from your door locking mechanism and could increase its life span.
Broken Spring Cassettes
If a door handle becomes stiff it can often be caused by a problem in the tubular latch itself. It's usually a simple fix that can be achieved by repositioning the replacement handle's fixing plates that are inside it. First take the door off and make sure there are no obvious obstructions to the latch plate like loose screws or evidence of internal parts that are visible. If this is not the situation, one of the springs in your uPVC handles might need to be moved.
The easiest way to do this is to buy a door handle repair kit. The kit includes all the tools needed to remove the handles, and then reposition them. Follow the instructions and you'll soon have a the drooping or sagging uPVC handle that is fully functional.
A loose uPVC door handle could be the result of thermal contraction but is usually an indication that the gearbox inside has broken. This isn't something that can be fixed at home and will require the help of an expert locksmith.
It is crucial to select a genuine replacement gearbox to your uPVC doors. This will ensure everything is properly installed. Using an aftermarket replacement that is less expensive can cause problems, such as the lock being defective or causing less security for your home.
Another option is replacing the entire uPVC handle mechanism and lock. This will not only resolve the sagging issue but also ensure that the handle is functional and secure. It's important to keep in mind that this isn't a simple or inexpensive solution. Repair My Windows And Doors will require the removal of the current uPVC handle and replacement with an entirely new assembly. This is only suitable for double glazing doors with sprung handles, as the door will need be redrilled. For a quicker and cheaper option you can always purchase new handles that have built-in springs that will remove the need to drill doors.
Can I put a uPVC Door Handle to an aluminum or timber door?
When it comes to choosing doors for your home there are many factors to consider. Doors made of aluminum are modern and attractive while uPVC is durable as well as security and energy efficiency. The proper handle is crucial for the style of door you wish to install. If you are looking to replace your existing handles or install new ones, it is essential to choose the right one for your property. Our uPVC door handle replacement guide will assist you in making the right decision and install them with confidence.
Switching the handle of an uPVC handle is relatively simple and only requires basic tools. First, you'll need to remove the existing handle. You can remove the screws that hold it in place using a screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you can remove the handle out of the door.
Next, you will need to determine the size of your door handle. To accomplish this, you'll be required to determine the centre of the back plate fixing holes. This is often referred to as PZ measurement. It is used to determine the spindle size of the handle. Once you have this information, you can get a replacement handle that is the correct size for your door.
There are many different types of uPVC handles available to meet your needs. Some of these handles are designed with extra security features like anti-drilling protection and cylinder guards as well as mole grips. These uPVC handles can be installed on uPVC doors, as well as wood and aluminum ones. They are ideal for those who want to improve the security of their home.
There are also uPVC handles that are more traditional. They are available in a variety of finishes, including chrome, gold and black. They are typically a little more expensive than standard handles but will provide an attractive finish to your door.
After you have selected the appropriate uPVC door handle, it's important to check the dimensions prior to placing an order. You will need to check the dimensions above, along with the keyhole and lever dimensions and the backplate mounting centres to ensure that the new handle is the perfect one for your door.