Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
It's easy to replace your handles made of upvc, but choosing the right handle can be a bit difficult. Modern double glazed handles are fitted with spring cassettes, whereas older handles don't.
If the upvc handle on your multipoint lock is loose and floppy, there could be an internal issue. This article will address a variety of potential problems and their causes.
Sagging or drooping handles
uPVC handles are susceptible to wear and tear. This is particularly true in older properties. The most common reason that the handle becomes floppy due to a broken spring cassette in the door lever. This is due to excessive force and the square spindle that holds the cassette could be displaced or turned round.
The good news is that replacing the door handle made of uPVC is a fairly simple task and can be completed in just a few minutes. The first step is to disassemble the handle unit that was previously installed by unscrewing the fixing screws visible on the back of the handle lever plate. Once the handles are removed, you can unscrew and replace the cassette.
Online you can choose from a wide selection of uPVC handles, many of which come in a variety of finishes. Selecting the right finish will determine the length of time your handle will last as well as how it is easy to keep clean. Finishes such as Resista, Stainless Steel, or PVD are designed to resist corrosion and last up to 25 years.
After you have chosen the colour or style you can then choose the type of handle you require. The most well-known types are the lever and pad configurations. Lever pads are commonly used to prevent unauthorised access. They feature both a lever inside and a paddle out.
Next, measure and note the dimensions of the handle you currently have. You'll need to know the PZ dimension (the distance from the screw hole to the middle of the lever) as well as the length of the handle as well as the dimension of the keyhole. Once you have the measurements you can then compare them with the handle sizes matrix to determine the right replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, the handles of uPVC doors can get loose or wobbly and at times the spring cassette inside could break. These springs help align the handle lever in a horizontal direction. Without them your doors will not lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles come with these cassettes built directly into the back plate. These springs are often integrated into older uPVC door mechanisms. This can't be fixed by yourself, but it is worth getting your locksmith to look at as this could be the cause of the drooping or sagging uPVC door handles .
The most common problem that is encountered with uPVC handles is that they become loose over time. 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 causes the springs to move.
To solve this issue, you'll need open the door to the handle plate and then remove all screws. This can be done using the help of a Philips screwdriver. After the screws have been removed the handle can be removed. The plates for the handle can then be pulled apart. Then you can take off the springs that were in use and replace them with fresh springs.
This is important to note when buying a replacement handle. This measurement is known as the PZ measure and it is recommended that this is taken with a calibrated tape measure for accuracy.
After replacing the springs you should be able to use the handle without any problems. But, it's worth lubricating the mechanism inside to ensure that everything works as it should do. This will ensure that your uPVC door is as secure as could be, and make them more comfortable as time passes.
Handles that slide around
Handles that move around can be caused by a variety of reasons, but one of the most common causes is when the levers on the handle aren't aligned properly with lock. This is a problem that can occur with both uPVC and composite doors, but is typically more evident on older doors since they are often made from less durable materials that don't stand up well to the elements.
This issue can be resolved by a professional, who will re-align the handles and make sure they're in line with the door lock. They'll also examine the lock itself to see what needs fixing. In most cases, a simple adjustment to the handle springs is enough 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, as well as the size of the keyhole and lever, and the distance between them. You can then make use of this uPVC handles size guide to locate the right replacement for your home.
After you have taken the measurements, take off the old uPVC handle. This is usually fairly straightforward and requires just a screwdriver reach the screws on the inside of the door. Once the screws have been removed, you'll have to unscrew the handle and then install the new one.
Before starting the work, you should ensure that the door is held open by a wedge to prevent it from closing in the middle of your work. After you have removed the handle, you will be able to access the parts beneath the door that cause the door to slide.
If you don't have the time or nerves to tackle this task yourself, a handyman from Fantastic Services can help. They will use special lock picking techniques to open the doors without causing damage. Then, they'll replace the broken handle and make sure everything works exactly as it should.
Gearbox damaged
A damaged gearbox can cause the door handle made of upvc to become stiff or lose function. The lock may also not be able to be opened by keys. This could be dangerous and should be addressed as soon as possible. If you are unable resolve the issue yourself it is essential to get in touch with a locksmith because they have the experience and tools to do the job right.
The first step is to unhook the handle from its cover plate. This can be done using a screwdriver with flat heads. After removing the handle, you need to remove the middle screw that is holding the cylinder. After you have removed the middle screw you'll be able to loosen the two screws that secure the barrel. Then you can take the barrel out of the door. You'll need to open the door to accomplish this, so be sure to have someone available to assist.
After you have removed the cylinder, you can replace with a new cylinder. Make sure that the new cylinder is the same dimensions as the old one. Otherwise, you could end having a handle that isn't aligned correctly. This can cause a variety of issues, such as leaks and draughts.
Most door handles made of upvc feature slots for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten or loosen the handle. These are usually located on the inside of the door close to where the handle meets the cylinder. The adjustment slots can be tightened by using an allen wrench. After you have made the adjustments you can place the handle back into place & screw it in. Then, you'll be able to test the handle to make sure that it is working correctly.
The upvc door handle becoming loose when closed is usually an indication that the spring or gearbox components have broken down. This can cause your multipoint locks made of upvc to fail leaving your door open to intrusion. If this occurs, it is necessary to replace the upvc gearbox. This will cost between PS145-PS280 with the labor included.