Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
Replacing your upvc door handles is a relatively simple job however choosing the right handle can be a challenge. The majority of modern double-glazed handles include spring cassettes within them but older ones don't.
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 discuss a number of potential problems and their causes.
Handles that are drooping or sagging
UPVC handles are susceptible to wear and tear. This is especially the case in older properties. The most frequent reason handles become floppy is because of a broken spring cassette inside the door lever. This is caused by excessive force, and the square spindle that holds the cassette could be dislocated or round.
The good news is that a uPVC door handle replacement is an easy task and can be completed in a matter of minutes. The first step is to disassemble the old handle by removing the fixing screws visible on the back of the lever plate. Once the handles are removed, you can unscrew and replace the cassette.
You can find a wide selection of uPVC door handles to choose from online and many of them come in different finishes. The finish you choose will determine the longevity of your handle as well as how it is easy to clean. Finishes such as PVD, Stainless Steel or Resista are designed to withstand corrosion and will last up to 25 years.
Once you have selected the colour or style you can then choose the type of handle you require. The most popular types are pad and lever arrangements. Lever pads have a lever inside and a paddle on the outside and are often used as a security device to block access by unauthorised persons.
Next, measure and record the dimensions of the handle you have. You will need to measure the PZ dimension which is the distance between the screw hole and the middle of the lever. You will also need to determine how the handle's length is and the dimensions of its keyhole. You can compare the measurements with the handle size matrix to determine the correct replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, uPVC handles may become wobbly or loose. The spring cassette could also break. These springs help ensure that the lever is in a horizontal position. Without them the doors won't 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 isn't something you can be fixed on your own, 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 frequent issue that is encountered with uPVC handles is that they loosen over time. This is usually due to worn out springs, which are easy to fix. The majority of the time, this is caused by excessive use of the handle and as a result of that, the square spindle within the handle will wear away and cause the springs to be displaced.
To fix this, you will have to open the door to the handle plate and unscrew all the screws. This can be done using a Philips screwdriver. After the screws are removed, the handle can then be taken off. The plates for the handle are then able to be gently pulled apart. The springs that were used before can be removed and replaced with new springs.
Depending on the kind of handle you have the distance between the two fixing screws can differ, and this is crucial to know prior to purchasing a replacement. This measurement is known as the PZ measure and it is recommended that it be measured using an instrument that is calibrated to ensure accuracy.
After reinstalling the springs, you should be able to operate the handle with no issues. But, it's worth lubricating the mechanism inside to make sure that everything works just as it should. This will ensure that your uPVC door is as safe as it can be, and also improve their comfort over time.
Handles that slide around
Handles that move around can be caused by a variety of reasons, but one of the most frequent causes is when the handle levers aren't aligned correctly with the lock. This is a problem that can occur with both uPVC and composite doors, but is usually more noticeable on older doors as they are typically made of cheaper materials that don't resist the elements.
A professional can address this issue by rearranging the handles so that they are in line with the lock. They'll also inspect the lock itself to determine what needs fixing. In most cases, a small modification to the springs of the handle is all it takes to resolve this issue.
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 the correct size. You'll need to determine the distance between the two screws, the dimensions of the keyhole and lever, as well as the distance between them. Then, use this uPVC handles size guide to find an appropriate replacement for your home.
Once you have the measurements, the next step is to remove the existing uPVC handles. This is usually fairly straightforward and requires only a screwdriver to get to the screws on the inside of the door. Once the screws are removed, you'll need to unscrew the handle and then put in the new one.
Before starting the work, you should ensure that the door is secured open with a door wedge to prevent it from closing during the course of your work. After you have removed the handle it is now possible to inspect the underside of the door to address the issues that are causing it to slide.
A handyman from Fantastic Services will be able assist if you don't want to tackle the task yourself or don't have the skills. They will use special locks to unlock the doors without damaging the door. They will then replace the broken handle and ensure that everything works exactly as it should.
Gearbox damaged
A damaged gearbox can cause the upvc handle to become stiff and lose function. The lock may also be unable to be opened using the use of a key. This could be dangerous and should be addressed as soon as is feasible. If you are unable to resolve the issue yourself it is essential to contact a locksmith as they have the expertise and tools needed to do the job properly.
The first step is to remove the handle from the cover plate. You can do this with the help of a screwdriver with flat-headed tips. After you remove the handle, remove the middle screw that holds the barrel. Once you have removed this middle screw, you can then loosen the two screws that secure the barrel. You can then pull the barrel out of the door. You will need to open the door to accomplish this, so be sure you have someone on hand to assist you.
After taking the cylinder off you can replace it with a new cylinder. Make sure that the new cylinder is the same dimensions as the old one. You could have an incorrectly aligned handle. This could cause a range of issues, such as leaks and drafts.
Many upvc doors have adjustment slots which can be used to adjust the handle's tension or release. These slots are usually found on the inside of doors, near the spot where the handle meets with the cylinder. The slots for adjustment can be tightened with an allen wrench. After door handle repair repairmywindowsanddoors have made your adjustments then you can put the handle back in place & screw it in. Then, you can test the handle and make sure it is working as expected.
The upvc door handle becoming floppy when closed is usually an indication that the spring or gearbox components have broken down. This could cause your multipoint locks made of upvc to fail and leave your door open to burglars. If this occurs, it will be required to replace the upvc gearbox. The cost will range from PS145 to PS280, including labour.