How to accurately measure the centre distance and fixing centre distance of a door handle?

Understand the difference between a "centre distance" and a "fixing centre distance" through this practical guide

Before investing in a new door handle for your house or flat, it is essential to understand the technical terms associated with these fittings. This will help you ask relevant questions of an ironmongery professional and make you better prepared to research the ranges offered by different manufacturers online. One such question is: how do you accurately measure a door handle’s centre-to-centre distance and fixing centres? In this article, we’ll explore what each measurement means and why it matters.

What centre-to-centre distance and fixing centres mean

What is the centre-to-centre distance of a door handle?

Before buying or replacing a door handle, it is essential to distinguish between three key measurements, the first of which is the centre-to-centre distance. This is the distance between the centre of the handle spindle (follower) and the centre of the opening for the key, cylinder or bathroom lock thumbturn spindle. The most common centre-to-centre distances are 70, 72, 85, 90 and 92 millimetres, with different specifications for different markets:

• 70 mm centre-to-centre distance: the standard for entrance doors and interior door handles in France
• 72 mm centre-to-centre distance: German and Belgian standard
• 92 mm centre-to-centre distance: suitable for aluminium or metal doors
• 85 mm centre-to-centre distance: Italian standard
• 90 mm centre-to-centre distance: used in Poland

It is important to note that both the centre-to-centre distance and the backset are measured in relation to the rotational axes of the handle and key in the door lock.

Door handle fixing centres:

The fixing centres are the distance between the bolts that secure the metal handle to the wooden door. Specifically, this is the distance between the upper and lower holes in the backplate. This measurement is crucial because it must match the mortice lock for secure fitting.

Note: A mortice lock fits within the thickness of the door and remains hidden for a more attractive appearance.

The fixing centres for handles on a long backplate intended for the French market are generally 165 mm or 195 mm (the most common), although some measure 210 mm. A new door lock will already have holes for small fittings such as M4 through-bolts. These through-fixings are recommended because they distribute pressure evenly on certain types of interior door handle. In general, the fixing centres are wide enough for the fixing screws to pass above and below the lock.

If you plan to keep the existing door lock and replace only the handles, choose handles with similar specifications (centre-to-centre distance, fixing centres and backset) to avoid any surprises during installation. When replacing old handles with more stylish ones, it is essential to choose handles with the same fixing centres to avoid drilling new holes in the door and weakening its structure.

IMPORTANT: Older door locks do not have holes in their mechanisms for M4 fixing screws! It is therefore essential to replace the old door lock if you plan to swap handles on long backplates for handles on roses, which have fixing centres of approximately 38 mm.

Practical tips

Taking accurate door handle measurements

To accurately measure the distance between the handle and the keyhole (the centre-to-centre distance), use a tape measure or ruler and check the dimensions carefully. Our diagram shows you where to take these measurements:

Matching the handle backplate to the lock

When the centre-to-centre distance matches standard measurements, you can use conventional long backplates. If the lock’s spacing differs from standard measurements, however, you may need to choose a handle on a rose, with a separate rose and plate for improved ergonomics.

Before buying, it is essential to check the dimensions of the door lock carefully. Accurate measurements will ensure the lock fits properly with the newly installed rose and handle, allowing the door to open smoothly.

Replacing handles and their backplates is relatively straightforward, but it can transform the appearance of your doors. A small change using products from the MILLA shop can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to your interior.

Explore our extensive range of door handles, available in a wide variety of finishes, including matt black, gold, polished brass, chrome, Zamak, brushed stainless steel, bronze, satin and lacquered finishes, and many more for a stylish interior! You’re sure to find the perfect finish to suit your décor and preferences. With the right measurements to hand, you’ll be ready to choose and install door handles that enhance both the appearance and functionality of your living space, taking careful account of the centre-to-centre distance and fixing centres.