Multipoint UPVC Door Lock – Measuring Guide
Handles & Hinges UPVC Maintenance Ltd is a UK specialist in UPVC door parts. Use this quick guide to record the key sizes of your multipoint lock so you can match the correct gearbox or full lock strip in one go.
Before you start: Work with the door open. Support the
door edge, keep screws safe, and don’t overtighten into reinforcement.
What to measure (in order)
-
Brand / stamp on the faceplate
Look along the lock faceplate for a name or code (e.g., ERA, GU, Yale, Winkhaus, Mila, Roto). Snap a clear photo. -
Backset
From the faceplate edge to the centre of the square spindle hole in the gearbox — commonly 35 mm or 45 mm on UPVC doors (others exist). -
PZ (centres)
From the spindle centre to the cylinder/keyhole centre — typical sizes: 92 mm (modern), 70/68 mm (older). -
Handle screw centres
Centre-to-centre between the two handle fixing screws (e.g., 122, 148, 211/215 mm). -
Overall strip length & layout
End-to-end length of the full multipoint strip, and the type/position of locking points (hooks, rollers, mushrooms, bolts). Note distances from the gearbox to the nearest point (e.g., “first hook 450 mm up”). -
Faceplate width
Width of the metal strip (often ~16–20 mm). Record if it’s flat or U-shaped. -
Operation
Lift-lever or key-wind (double spindle), day-latch position, split spindle, lever/lever vs lever/pad outside. -
Door details
Door type (UPVC/composite), thickness, and any existing keeps/strikers you plan to re-use.
Quick reference table
| Measurement | How to take it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Backset | Faceplate edge → spindle centre | Positions the handle correctly |
| PZ (centres) | Spindle centre → keyhole centre | Must match your handle/gearbox |
| Handle screw centres | Between the two fixing screws | Ensures handle holes line up |
| Strip length | End-to-end metal length | Reach to keeps & points |
| Locking layout | Count hooks/rollers & note distances | Compatibility with existing keeps |
| Faceplate width | Measure the metal strip | Fits the door edge channel |
| Operation type | Lift-lever / key-wind / split spindle | Correct gearbox family |
When you only need a gearbox
- The strip and locking points are intact; only the centre mechanism has failed (jamming/freewheeling).
- You want the fastest, most economical fix (gearboxes often cost a fraction of a full strip).
When you need the full multipoint strip
- Damaged/bent strip, broken hooks/rollers, or changed cam spacing.
- Upgrading operation type (e.g., to lift-lever) or retrofitting a different layout/brand.
Measuring tips
- Photograph the gearbox, the whole strip, and the nearest hook/roller to the centre with a tape against it.
- Most door handles use an 8 mm square spindle; confirm if yours differs.
- If keeps don’t align with the new strip’s cam spacing, replace them as a set for best results.
Copy-and-fill checklist
| Field | Your notes |
|---|---|
| Brand / code | |
| Backset (mm) | |
| PZ / Centres (mm) | |
| Handle screw centres (mm) | |
| Faceplate width (mm) | |
| Strip length (mm) | |
| Locking points (type & count) | |
| Distances from gearbox → first point (mm) | |
| Operation type (lift-lever/key-wind/split) | |
| Door type (UPVC/composite) & thickness |