UPVC door handles are a vital part of modern homes, combining functionality, durability, and aesthetics. As the popularity of UPVC doors grows, understanding the various components of UPVC door handles becomes increasingly essential for homeowners, builders, and designers. This thorough guide will teach you all you need to know about UPVC door handles, including their types, benefits, installation procedures, maintenance advice, and the best handle for your door.

What are UPVC door handles?

Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, or UPVC, is a type of plastic recognized for its strength, durability, and low maintenance requirements. UPVC door handles are specifically intended to complement UPVC doors, which are widely used in residential and commercial settings due to their energy efficiency, security, and weather resistance.

Types of UPVC Door Handles

Lever/Handles

Lever/Lever handles are the most prevalent style of UPVC door handles. They include a lever on both the inside and outside of the door, making it simple to operate. These handles are commonly used on entrance doors and work with multi-point locking systems.

Lever/Pad Handles

Lever and pad handles have a lever on the inside and a pad on the exterior. This design provides additional protection because the exterior pad cannot be turned without a key. Lever/Pad handles are perfect for doors that need more security, such as front and back doors.

Inline Handles

Inline handles are intended explicitly for sliding UPVC doors. They allow the door to move smoothly down its track and are available in various styles to match the door's design.

Offset Handles

Offset handles are also used on sliding UPVC doors. However, they are intended to provide more leverage and ease of operation. They have a handle that is offset from the centre of the door, making it more straightforward to slide open and close.

Advantages of UPVC Door Handles

Durability

UPVC door handles are highly sturdy and corrosion-resistant, making them suitable for indoor and outdoor use. They can survive extreme weather without deterioration, assuring long-term performance.

Low maintenance

One of the primary benefits of UPVC door handles is their low maintenance requirement. They do not need painting or varnishing and can be cleaned with a moist cloth and mild detergent.

Security

UPVC door handles integrate with modern locking systems, enhancing security for your house or business. Lever and pad handles, in particular, provide additional protection against unauthorised entry.

Aesthetic appeal

UPVC door handles come in a range of shapes, finishes, and colours and can improve the overall appearance of your doors. Whether you want a modern or traditional appearance, there is a UPVC door handle to suit your aesthetic choices.

How to Select the Right UPVC Door Handle

Consider the door type

The type of door you have will determine the appropriate handle. For typical hinged doors, lever/lever or lever/pad handles are suitable. Choose inline or offset handles for your sliding doors.

Match the style

Choose a handle that compliments the style of your door and the overall aesthetic of your home. Consider the handle's finish and color to ensure it matches your door.

Check the measurements

Measure the backset, center, and screw-fixing positions of your existing UPVC door handle before purchasing a new one. This will ensure that the new handle fits precisely and without any adjustments.

Assess the security features

For outdoor doors, choose handles with solid security features. Look for handles that work with multi-point locking systems and have anti-snap, anti-drill, and anti-pick mechanisms.

Installation Process: Tools Required

Screwdriver

Tape measures

Drill if necessary.

Pencil

Steps for Installing UPVC Door Handles

Remove the Old Handle: Use a screwdriver to unscrew the existing handle from the door.

Measure the distance between the screw holes on the new handle and mark it on the door.

Drill New Holes (if necessary): If the screw positions on the new handle differ from the old ones, drill new holes accordingly.

Attach the new handle

Align the new handle with the marked positions and screw it in place.

Test the handle. Ensure the handle moves smoothly and the locking mechanism works properly.

Maintenance Tips

Regular Cleaning: Clean the handle with a moist cloth and mild detergent to eliminate dirt and grime.

Lubrication: Apply a tiny amount of lubricant to the moving parts to ensure they run smoothly.

Inspect for Damage: Regularly check for signs of wear and damage and replace worn-out components as soon as possible.

Tighten Screws: Regularly tighten the screws to keep the handle from becoming loose.

Conclusion

UPVC door handles are an essential component of modern doors, delivering durability, low maintenance, security, and aesthetic appeal. Understanding the many types of UPVC door handles, their benefits, and how to select the proper one can help you improve the functioning and beauty of your doors. Your UPVC door handles will last longer if installed and maintained regularly.