Replacing a uPVC door handle is one of the easiest and most effective ways to restore your door’s smooth operation and improve your home’s security. Whether your existing handle is stiff, broken, or just outdated, replacing it can make your door look and feel brand-new again.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to measure, choose, and fit the right replacement handle — plus see examples of the most popular models available in our uPVC Door Handle Collection
🧰 Step 1: How to Measure a uPVC Door Handle
Before purchasing, it’s important to take accurate measurements. Every handle design has different spacing and alignment requirements.
Key Measurements to Take:
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PZ (Centre-to-Centre Distance): The measurement between the spindle (the square turning bar) and the keyhole. Common sizes: 92mm, 72mm, and 68mm.
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Fixing Centres: Distance between the two screw holes holding your handle to the door.
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Backplate Length: Total vertical length of the handle plate.
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Spindle Length: The part that connects both sides through the door.
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Handle Orientation: Inline (same direction both sides) or offset (different directions).
💡 Always measure in millimetres (mm) for accuracy.
🛠️ Step 2: Choosing the Right Replacement Handle
Once you’ve got your measurements, the next step is selecting a handle that fits your door type, lock system, and preferred finish.
What to Consider:
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PZ and Fixing Centres must match your existing handle perfectly.
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Lock System Compatibility: Most uPVC doors use multipoint locking mechanisms.
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Style and Finish: Choose from white, chrome, black, or brass finishes to suit your door’s look.
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Sprung vs Unsprung: Sprung handles return automatically; unsprung rely on your door lock’s spring.
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Brand and Quality: Opt for durable handles made from corrosion-resistant materials.
👉 Explore all styles in our uPVC Door Handle Collection for a perfect match.
🔧 Step 3: How to Fit a New uPVC Door Handle
Fitting a replacement handle is simple and usually takes less than 15 minutes.
Tools You’ll Need:
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Phillips screwdriver
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Tape measure
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Allen key (if required)
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Replacement handle set
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Optional: lubricant
Installation Steps:
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Remove the Old Handle – Unscrew the fixing bolts and remove both sides of the handle.
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Insert the New Spindle – Place it through the latch hole and test movement.
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Fit the New Handle – Align the screw holes and tighten the fixing bolts.
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Check the Operation – Test handle return and locking smoothness.
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Polish and Finish – Clean surfaces and check alignment.
🎯 Pro Tip: Don’t overtighten screws — this can distort the mechanism or jam the handle.
🧩 Common Problems & Quick Fixes
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Handle is stiff | Dirt or misalignment | Clean, lubricate, or re-align |
| Handle drops | Unsprung design | Replace with a sprung model |
| Lock won’t engage | Incorrect PZ size | Measure again and replace handle |
| Handle feels loose | Worn spindle or screws | Tighten or replace parts |
🔒 Ensuring Safety and Compliance
When choosing or installing a new uPVC door handle, it’s important to make sure your selection not only fits perfectly but also meets modern safety and accessibility standards. For example, the British Standard BS 8300-2:2018 offers guidance on how door hardware should be designed for ease of use — ensuring that handles can be comfortably operated with one hand and without excessive force. Following these standards helps improve accessibility for everyone while maintaining top-tier safety and durability. You can learn more about these door handle standards on the HOPPE website
✅ Final Thoughts
Replacing your uPVC door handle is a quick DIY job that improves your door’s look, feel, and performance. With the right measurements, tools, and product choice, you can complete the task in minutes.
Upgrade your door today with a stylish, secure handle from the uPVC Door Handle Collection — designed for lasting quality and perfect fit.
📚 Featured Collections in This Article
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🔗 uPVC Door Handle Collection – Shop all handle sizes, colours, and lock types.
