Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
It's easy to replace your upvc handles however choosing the best handle can be a bit difficult. Modern double glazed handles are equipped with spring cassettes, but older handles do not.
If the handle of your upvc is loose and floppy, it could be an issue with the internal components of the multipoint lock. This article will cover a number of potential problems and their causes.
Handles that sag or droop
uPVC handles can sustain wear and tear, especially in older properties. A broken spring cassette inside the door lever is the most typical reason for a floppy handle. This is typically caused by excessive force and the square spindle which holds the cassette may be displaced or the cassette can be rounded off.
It is a good thing to know that a uPVC handle replacement can be done within a matter of minutes. The first step is to remove 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.
On the internet, you can pick from a range of uPVC handles that come with different finishes. The finish you choose will determine the durability of your handle as well as how it is easy to clean. Finishes such as PVD, Stainless Steel or Resista are made to withstand corrosion and will last up to 25 years.
After you have chosen a colour or style you can choose the type of handle you require. The most popular types are pad and lever arrangements. Lever pads are often used to prevent unauthorised access. They feature an inside lever and a paddle on the outside.
Then, take a measurement and record the dimensions of the handle you currently have. You will need to know the PZ dimension (the distance from the screw hole to the center of the lever) as well as the length of the handle and the dimensions of the keyhole. You can compare the measurements to the size matrix of the handle to find the correct replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, uPVC handles can become loose or wobbly. The spring cassette may also break. The springs are used to align the handle lever in a horizontal direction. Without them the doors won't lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles are made with these cassettes built directly into the backplate. These springs are typically integrated into older uPVC door mechanisms. This isn't something that 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 that is encountered with uPVC handles is that they tend to loosen as time passes. This is usually caused by worn-out springs, which are simple to fix. This is usually caused by excessive handling of the handle. The square spindle of the handle will wear down and causes the springs to move.
To fix this, you will need to open the door towards the handle plate and then remove all the screws. This can be accomplished using a Philips screwdriver. Once the screws are removed the handle can be removed and the plates pulled apart carefully. The springs that were used before can be removed and replaced with new springs.
This is a crucial point to remember when purchasing a new handle. This measurement is referred to as the PZ and it is essential to make use of a calibrated measuring tape for an precise reading.
After replacing the springs, you should be able to use the handle with no issues. But, it's worth lubricating the mechanism inside to make sure that everything functions just as it should. This will not only ensure that your uPVC doors are as secure as they can be but will also make them more comfortable to use over time too.
Handles that slide around
Handles that slide are caused by a variety of things. One of the most common causes is that the levers of the handle aren't aligned with the lock. This is a problem that can occur with both uPVC and composite doors, but is generally more noticeable on older doors as they are often made from less durable materials that don't resist the elements.
This issue can be resolved by a professional who will adjust the handles and ensure that they are in line with the door lock. They will also look at the lock to see what requires fixing. In most cases, a simple modification to the springs of the handle is enough to fix this issue.
Switching your uPVC door handle is easy enough, but you need to measure the measurements of the handles you have in place to ensure that you have the right size replacement. You'll need to take measurements of the distance between the two fixing screws and the dimensions of the lever and key-hole position. Then, you can use this uPVC handle size guide to determine the correct replacement for your home.
Once you have the measurements, the next step is to take off the existing uPVC handles. It's usually a simple process and only requires an screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you are able to unscrew the handle itself and then proceed to install the new one.
It is essential to secure the door with a wedge prior to starting. 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 underneath the door that are causing the door to slip.
A handyman from Fantastic Services will be able to assist you if want to do the work yourself or don't have the skills. They'll employ locksmith methods to unlock the door without causing any damage and will then replace the damaged handle, making sure everything is in place and working just as it should.
Gearbox damage
A damaged gearbox may cause the upvc door handle to become stiff or lose its function. The lock may also be unable to be opened with the use of a key. This can be very dangerous and should be dealt with promptly. It is crucial to contact an expert locksmith if you can't solve the issue yourself. They have the tools and know-how to get the job done right.
The first step is to remove the handle from the cover plate. This can be done using a screwdriver equipped with flat heads. After you remove the handle, you need to remove the middle screw that holds the barrel. Once you have removed the middle screw, you can then loosen the two screws that hold the barrel. Then, you can remove the barrel away from the door. You will have to open the door to do this, so make sure to have someone available to assist you.
After taking the cylinder off you can replace it with a new cylinder. It is crucial to make sure that the new cylinder is the exact size as the previous one. You might have an incorrectly aligned handle. This can lead to numerous issues that could cause leaks and drips.
Many upvc doors have adjustment slots which can be used to tighten or loosen the handle. These are usually located on the inside of the door, near where the handle joins the cylinder. The adjustment slots can be tightened using an allen wrench. After window handles have made the adjustments then you can put the handle back in place and screw it back in. Then, you can test the handle to make sure it's working properly.
The upvc door handle becoming loose when closed is usually an indication that the spring or gearbox components have failed. This could cause the multipoint lock from upvc to fail and leave your door open to intruders. If this occurs, it will be required to replace the upvc gearbox. The cost will range from PS145 - PS280 inclusive of labour.