Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
It's simple to replace your upvc handles however choosing the best handle can be a bit difficult. Modern double-glazed handles include spring cassettes within them but older ones don't.
If the handle of your upvc is loose and floppy, there could be an issue with the internal parts of the multipoint lock. This article will discuss several possible problems and their causes.
Sagging or drooping handles
uPVC handles are susceptible to wear and tear. This is particularly true in older properties. A broken spring cassette in the door lever is the most common reason for a handle that is floppy. This is usually caused by excessive force and the square spindle that supports the cassette may be displaced or rounded off.
It is good to be aware that a uPVC handle replacement can be completed in just a few minutes. The first step is removing the old handle unit. To do this, unscrew the fixing screws that are visible on the backside of the handle lever. Once the handles are removed you can then unscrew the cassette from the square spindle and replace it with an entirely new one.
Online you can choose from a range of uPVC handles that come in different finishes. The finish you choose will determine the length of time your handle will last as well as how easy it is to keep clean. Finishes like Resista Stainless Steel, or PVD are designed to resist corrosion and last up to 25 years.
Once you have selected the colour or style you can choose the kind of handle you want. The most common kinds are lever and pad arrangement. Lever pads have a lever on the inside and a paddle on the outside, this is often used as a security feature to stop unauthorised access.
The next step is to measure the dimensions of your current handle and write them down. You will need to measure the PZ dimension which is the distance between the screw hole and the center of your lever. You will also need to be aware of how the handle's length is and the dimensions of its keyhole. You can compare the measurements to the handle size matrix to determine the appropriate replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, the handles of uPVC doors are prone to becoming wobbly or loose and occasionally the spring cassette inside might break. These springs are used to ensure that the lever is in a horizontal direction. Without them, your doors will not lock properly.
upvc door handles come with these cassettes incorporated directly into the back plate. However older uPVC doors often contain these springs within the actual lock mechanism. This isn't something you can be fixed by yourself but it is worth getting your locksmith to look as this could be the reason behind the drooping or sagging uPVC door handles.
The most common issue associated with uPVC handles is that they loosen as time passes. This is usually caused by worn-out springs, which are easy to fix. The reason for this is usually excessive handling of the handle. The square spindle of the handle wears down and cause the springs to move.
To fix this issue, you'll need open the door to the handle plate and unscrew all screws. This can be done using the help of a Philips screwdriver. Once the screws are removed the handle can be removed. The plates for the handle are then able to be gently removed. Then, you can remove the springs from the old ones and replace them with fresh ones.
It is crucial to keep this in mind when buying a replacement handle. This measurement is referred to as the PZ and it is important to use a measuring tape that is calibrated for an precise reading.
After replacing the springs, you should be able to use the handle with no issues. But, it's recommended to lubricate the internal mechanism to make sure that everything works exactly as it should. This will ensure that your uPVC door is as secure as could be, and increase their comfort in the long run.
Handles that slide around
Handles that slide around can be caused by a variety of reasons, but one of the most frequent causes is when the levers of the handle aren't aligned properly with the lock. This is a problem that can occur with both uPVC and composite doors, but it is usually more noticeable on older doors because they are typically made of cheap materials that aren't able to hold up to the elements.
A professional can address this issue by re-aligning the handles to ensure they are aligned with the lock. They'll also examine the lock to see if there is anything that needs fixing. In many cases, a small modification to the springs of the handle is all it takes to solve this problem.
It's easy to replace your uPVC handle, but you need to measure the handle that you are replacing to ensure that the new one is of the right size. You'll need to determine the distance of the two screws, the dimensions of the keyhole and lever, and the distance between them. Then, you can use this uPVC handle size guide to locate the right replacement for your home.
After you've taken the measurements, take off the current uPVC handle. This is typically quite simple and requires just a screwdriver get to the screws on the inside of the door. After the screws are removed, you are able to take off the handle itself and then proceed to install the new one.
Before you begin, it's worth ensuring that the door is securely open with a door wedge to stop it from closing in the middle of your work. After the handle has been removed you'll be able to access the underlying parts of the door to address the problems that are causing it to sag.
A handyman from Fantastic Services will be able assist if you don't want to do the job yourself or aren't confident enough. They will use specialist locksmith opening methods to open the door without causing damage and will then replace the damaged handle, ensuring that everything is in place and working as it should be.
Gearbox damaged
A damaged gearbox can cause the handle made of upvc to become stiff and lose its function. This could also stop the lock from being able to be opened with the use of a key. This could be dangerous and should be addressed as soon as is possible. It is crucial to contact a locksmith if you cannot solve the issue yourself. They have the equipment and knowledge to complete the task correctly.
The first step is to take the handle from its cover plate. This can be accomplished using a screwdriver with a flat head. After you have removed the handle, you are able to remove the middle screw that holds the barrel in place. Once you have removed the middle screw, you can then loosen the two screws that hold the barrel. Then you can pull the barrel out of the door. To do this, you will need someone to prop the door wide.
Once you have removed your cylinder from the handle, you can replace it with a fresh one. Make sure that the new cylinder is the exact dimensions as the old one. Otherwise, you may end with a handle that isn't aligned properly. This can cause a variety of issues, such as leaks and drips.
A lot of doors made of upvc have adjustment slots that allow you to adjust the handle's tension or release. These slots are usually located on the inside of the doors, near the spot where the handle joins the cylinder. Allen wrenches can be used to tighten the slots for adjustment. Once you've made the necessary adjustments you can screw the handle in and then put it back into place. After that, you can test the handle to make sure that it is working correctly.
The upvc door handle becoming loose when closed is typically an indication that the spring or gearbox components have failed. This can cause the multipoint lock from upvc to fail, leaving your door open to burglars. If this happens, it will be necessary to replace the gearbox. The cost will range from PS145 to PS280 with the labor included.