How to change a uPVC door lock

Are you having problems with your uPVC door lock? Have several parts been replaced or repaired but it’s still not working like it should? If this sounds like you, read on to find out all you need to know about how to change a uPVC door lock.

Why do you need to change locks on a uPVC door?

There are several reasons why a uPVC door lock needs changing. Some common problems include:

• Faulty handle
• Stiff or sticking key operation
• Difficult to engage locking points
• Loose feel to the door when locked

If you have experienced any of these problems, it’s probably time to change your uPVC door lock. Before you begin, have a read of our blog on what to do if your uPVC door lock is broken for more information.

If you’ve recently moved house, it’s also a good idea to change your door locks for security reasons.

Identifying your uPVC door lock

The first thing to do when you want to change your uPVC door lock is to find out what type you have.

If you open the door and look at the edge where the locking mechanism is located, you should be able to find a manufacturer’s name and part number.

Make a note of this to take to your local hardware store. Once you have done this and you’ve purchased a replacement door lock, it’s time to start.

How to change the lock on a uPVC door

Follow the steps below to replace your uPVC door lock. If you’re unsure about your DIY skills, why not hire a Checkatrade Approved locksmith near you?

Learn about typical locksmith prices in our dedicated guide. Or simply enter your postcode into the box below to find experts in your area.

1. Remove the old uPVC door lock

Unscrew all the screws along the door profile length. This will loosen the multi-point locking system.

Remove the door’s cylinder by inserting the key into the lock and moving it back and forth until it lines up with the inner cam of the lock.

Once you have removed the door cylinder, the handles and the multi-point locking system will be loosened enough to also be removed.

2. Replace the door cylinder

The new door cylinder should fit perfectly into the space from where you removed the old one.

Insert the key into the new door lock and push the cylinder into the space in the door. Turn the key until the lock cam is flush with the cylinder.

This is the reverse of the process you followed to remove the old door cylinder.

3. Attach the new handles

Place the new handles over the cylinder and inserted door key. Ensure the mechanism that links the handles and the door cylinder is connected.

Tighten the screws and test the handles to ensure that they move the door cylinder when engaged.

4. Fit the new multi-point locking system

The new multi-point locking system should fit perfectly in the space from where you removed the old one.

You may need to tap the locking system into place using a rubber mallet. Ensure that the locking system is connected to the door cylinder at the central section of the door.

Finally, tightly screw the multi-point locking system in place. You may need to drill some new pilot holes if the original holes are too loose.

5. Test the door

Once everything is in place, test the door. Open and close the door from the inside and outside. Lock and unlock the door from the inside and outside.

Congratulations! You have successfully changed your uPVC door lock.

How to change uPVC door lock barrels

If you’re changing your locks for security reasons, you can just replace the lock barrel instead of the whole cylinder. To do this, you’ll need your key. If you’ve misplaced it, you’ll need to get a locksmith to carry out this job for you.

Luckily, if you have your key handy, this is an easy job that should take just 5 minutes.

1. Remove the door handles

Open your door and hold it ajar. Unscrew all the screws that are holding the door handle in place – the exterior and interior handles should slide out together. Place them to the side and be careful not to lose any pieces.

2. Remove the lock barrel screw

Find the lock barrel screw. This should be located in the door profile, beneath the door lock. Usually, it will also be a different colour from the other screws that are part of the locking mechanism, so it will be easy to spot.

Use a screwdriver to remove it.

3. Remove the barrel

Insert your key into the lock and twist it to the right. Now use your key to slide it out of the door.

4. Fit your new barrel

Insert your new key into the new barrel and slide it into the space where the old barrel was. Use your key to twist the barrel until it fits snuggly and you can twist the key back and forth easily. Then, simply find your lock barrel screw and screw it back into place.

5. Reattach the handles

Fetch your door handles and place them back into position, threading the spindle through the handles socket. Then, re-insert the screws to fix them in place.

6. Test the door

Lock and unlock the door from both the inside and outside to test it.

Assuming it all works correctly, give yourself a pat on the back. You’ve changed the barrel lock on your uPVC door!

Find a professional to carry out a uPVC door lock change

If you haven’t been able to resolve your uPVC door lock problem yourself, don’t worry. You’re in the right place.

• With 47,000 approved tradespeople in our trusted directory, Checkatrade is the place to find the help you need
• The Checkatrade badge is a sign of a job well done*
• Every tradesperson has passed up to 12 rigorous checks to be in our directory, so you know you’re working with a true professional
• When you book a trade through Checkatrade, their work is guaranteed for up to 12 months (exclusions and T&Cs apply)
• With an average review score of 9.77 out of 10, Checkatrade tradespeople are known for high-quality*

*Claims are sourced from a survey conducted by Deep Blue Thinking on a nationally representative UK sample in November 2021.