Lock Shop Direct measurement guide
How to Measure uPVC and Multipoint Door Handles
Use this guide to measure replacement uPVC, composite and multipoint door handles and check that they are compatible with the existing lock gearbox and door.
Important: Measure from centre to centre. Matching the PZ and screw centres is essential, but spindle type, fixing positions, door thickness and handle operation must also be checked.
1. Identify the handle type
Record the arrangement on both sides of the door. Multipoint handles may be lever/lever, lever/pad, inline or offset, and may include a snib or other special function.
Identify both the inside and outside arrangement before measuring.
Lever/lever
Moveable lever on both sides. Confirm whether the spindle is single or split.
Lever/pad
Lever on one side and pad on the other. The pad may be fixed or moveable and may be inline or offset.
Snib or special function
Some handles hold the latch back or work with a split spindle. Match the exact operation.
2. Take the main handle measurements
Measure from the centre of holes and spindles rather than from their edges. Remove the handle only where the door can be kept secure.
| What to check |
How to measure or identify it |
Record |
| PZ centres |
Centre of the handle spindle to centre of the euro cylinder cut-out. |
_____ mm |
| Screw centres |
Centre-to-centre distance between the main fixing screws. |
_____ mm |
| Backplate |
Overall length and width of the plate. |
_____ × _____ mm |
| Top screw to spindle |
Centre of top fixing screw to centre of spindle. |
_____ mm |
| Lower fixing position |
Record the product-page reference, often cylinder cut-out or spindle to lower screw. |
_____ mm |
| Spindle |
Square size and usable length from the back of the plate. |
_____ mm |
3. Check lock and door compatibility
- Door thickness and any spacer or spring cassette.
- Single, split or dual-spindle gearbox.
- Sprung or unsprung handle set.
- Inline or offset lever/pad arrangement.
- Moveable or fixed outside pad.
- Handed or reversible levers.
- Euro-cylinder projection and any security shroud.
- Fixing bolts must pass through the intended areas of the lock case without obstruction.
4. Match the finish and coverage
Check that the new backplate covers any existing marks and holes. Record the colour or finish, lever shape and whether the inside and outside plates are identical.
If changing to security furniture, check the cylinder length at the same time. A thicker security plate may require a different cylinder size and fixing bolts.
5. Fitting and testing
Do not overtighten through-fixings because this can distort the plates, bind the spindle or clamp the lock gearbox. With the door open, check that:
- The handle returns freely.
- The latch retracts fully.
- The lever lifts without excessive force.
- The key turns and removes normally.
- The cylinder and spindle are not under tension.
Still not sure which product you need?
Send our team clear photographs and your measurements before ordering. Please include:
- Photographs of the inside and outside handles.
- PZ centres, screw centres and backplate length and width.
- Top and lower fixing positions.
- Spindle size, length and single or split-spindle operation.
- Door thickness, handle type, handing and finish.
This guide is intended to help identify and measure replacement hardware. Product designs, terminology and handing conventions can vary by manufacturer. Always compare the complete product specification and fitting instructions. Where a door or fitting forms part of a fire escape, fire door, powered system or other safety-critical installation, obtain advice from a competent person before ordering or altering the hardware.