Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
Replacing the handles on your doors made of upvc is a relatively simple job but picking the right handle can be a challenge. Modern double-glazed handles are fitted with spring cassettes, but older handles don't.
If the upvc handle on your multipoint lock is sloppy and floppy, there could be an internal issue. This article will address the various possible issues and their causes.
Handles that are drooping or sagging
uPVC handles are susceptible to wear and tear. This is especially true in older properties. The most common reason that the handle becomes floppy because of a broken spring cassette within the door lever. This is caused by a lot of force and the spindle holding the cassette can be moved or turned round.
The good news is that a uPVC door handle replacement is an easy task and can be accomplished in a matter of minutes. The first step is to take off the old handle unit. To remove it, loosen the fixing screws on the back of the handle lever. After the handles have been removed, you can unscrew and replace the cassette.
There is a wide range of uPVC door handles to select from online and many of them are available in various finishes. Choosing the right finish will determine the length of time your handle will last as well as how it is easy to keep clean. Finishes like PVD, Stainless Steel or Resista are designed to withstand corrosion and will last up to 25 years.
After you have selected a colour or style, you are able to choose the type of handle you want. The most commonly used kinds are lever and pad arrangements. Lever pads are typically used to stop access from unauthorised people. They are equipped with both a lever inside and a paddle out.
upvc replacement door handles is to measure the dimensions of your existing handle and record them. You'll need to determine the PZ dimension which is the distance between the screw hole and the middle of your lever. You'll also need to determine how long the handle is as well as the size of its keyhole. You can compare the measurements with the handle size matrix to determine the correct replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, handles made of uPVC may become wobbly or loose. The spring cassette might also break. These little springs help to bring the handle lever into a horizontal position and without them, doors will not lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles are constructed with these cassettes built directly into the backplate. The springs are usually built into older uPVC door mechanisms. This can't be fixed by yourself but it's worth asking your locksmith to take a look at as this could be the reason behind the drooping or sagging uPVC door handles.
One of the most common problems associated with uPVC door handles is that they get loose or wobbly with time. This is usually due to worn out springs, which is a relatively simple fix. This is typically caused by excessive handling of the handle. The square spindle inside the handle wears down and cause the springs to move.
In order to rectify this issue, open the door and unscrew the fixing screws located at the back of the handle plate. This can be accomplished using the help of a Philips screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, the handle can then be taken off. The handle plates are then able to be gently pulled apart. You can then remove the old springs and replace them with new springs.
Depending on the kind of handle you have the distance between the two fixing screws can differ, and this is important to know when buying an alternative. This measurement is known as the PZ measure and it is recommended that it be taken with an accurate tape measure to ensure accuracy.
After replacing the springs, you should be able to use the handle with no problems. It is important to oil your internal mechanism to make sure that everything is functioning just as it should. This will ensure that your uPVC door is as secure as it could be, and make them more comfortable as time passes.
Handles that slide around
Handles that slide around could be caused by a number different reasons. One of the most common causes is when the levers of the handle aren't aligned correctly with the lock. This can happen on both uPVC and composite doors, but it is generally more noticeable on older doors since they are often made from cheaper materials that don't resist the elements.
A professional can fix this issue by rearranging the handles to ensure they are aligned with the lock. They'll also inspect the lock itself to see if there is anything that requires fixing. In most cases, a simple adjustment to the handle springs is all it takes to fix this issue.
Changing your uPVC door handle is simple enough, but you need to take the measurements of the handles that are in use to make sure you have the correct size replacement. You'll need to take measurements of the distance between the two screws, the dimensions of the keyhole as well as the lever, and the distance between them. You can then use this uPVC handle size guide to determine the appropriate replacement for your home.
Once you have the measurements, the next step is to eliminate the old uPVC handles. This is usually fairly straightforward and requires only a screwdriver to get to the screws on the interior of the door. After the screws have been removed, you'll need to unscrew the handle and then install the new one.
It's important to secure the door with a wedge before you begin. This will stop it from closing during the course of your work. After you remove the handle, you'll be able to access the parts beneath the door that are causing the door to move.
If you don't have time or nerves to tackle this task on your own, an expert handyman from Fantastic Services can help. They will use specialist lock picking techniques to open the doors without creating damage. Then, they'll replace the broken handle and ensure that everything is working as it should.
Gearbox damaged
A damaged gearbox may cause the upvc door handle to become stiff or lose function. The lock could also be unable to be opened by a key. This is a risk and must be addressed as quickly as is possible. If you are unable to solve the issue on your own, it is important to call a locksmith since they are experts and have the tools to do the job correctly.
The first step is to remove the handle from the cover plate. This can be done using a screwdriver equipped with a flat head. After you have removed the handle, you can then take out the middle screw that holds the barrel in position. After taking out the middle screw, you'll be able loosen the two screws that secure the barrel. You can then remove the barrel away from the door. To accomplish this, you'll require someone to prop the door wide open.
After removing the cylinder and replacing it with a brand new cylinder. It is important to ensure that the new cylinder is the exact size as the previous one. You could end up with an incorrectly aligned handle. This can cause a variety of issues, including leaks and drafts.
Many upvc door handles have slots that allow for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten and loosen the handle. The slots are typically located on the inside of the doors, near the place where the handle meets with the cylinder. The adjustment slots can be tightened with an allen wrench. After you have made your adjustments, you can put the handle back into place and screw it in. Then, you can test the handle and make sure it functions as intended.
The door handle made of upvc that becomes loose when closed is usually an indication that the spring or gearbox components have failed. This can cause your multipoint locks made from upvc to fail leaving your door open to intrusion. If this occurs, it will be necessary to replace the upvc gearbox. It will cost between PS145 between PS145 and PS280 inclusive of labour.