Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
It's easy to replace your upvc handles however, choosing the correct handle can be a challenge. The majority of modern double-glazed handles include spring cassettes within them, however older models don't have.
If the upvc handle of your multipoint lock is sloppy and floppy, it could be an internal issue. This article will cover the various possible issues and their causes.
Handles that sag or drop
UPVC handles can withstand wear and tear, especially in older properties. A damaged spring cassette on the door lever is the most common reason for a handle that is floppy. This is caused by excessive force, and the square spindle holding the cassette can be dislocated or round.
It is good to know that a uPVC handrail replacement can be completed within a matter of minutes. The first step is to remove the old handle by unscrewing the fixing screws that are visible on the back of the lever plate. Once the handles are removed you can then unscrew the cassette from the square spindle and replace it with the new one.
You can find a wide variety of uPVC door handles to choose from online and many of them come in different finishes. Choosing the right finish will determine the length of time your handle will last as well as how easy it is to keep clean. Finishes such as Resista, Stainless Steel, or PVD are designed to resist corrosion and last for up to 25 years.
After you have selected a colour or style, you can choose the type of handle that you need. The most well-known types are the lever and pad configurations. Lever pads are commonly used to prevent unauthorised access. They have an inside lever and a paddle on the outside.
The next step is to measure the dimensions of your existing handle and record them. You will need to measure the PZ dimension, which is the distance between the screw hole and the centre of your lever. You'll also need to know how the handle's length is and the dimensions of its keyhole. You can compare these measurements to the handle size matrix to determine the correct replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, uPVC door handles may become wobbly or loose and at times the spring cassette inside may break. These tiny springs help bring the lever of the handle into a horizontal position and without them, doors won't lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles come with these cassettes built directly into the back plate. These springs are often built into older uPVC door mechanisms. It's not something you can fix yourself, but it's worthwhile to have your locksmith take a look as this could be the cause of the loosening of uPVC handles.
One of the most frequent problems that is commonly encountered with uPVC door handles is that they get loose or wobbly over time, and this is usually due to worn out springs which can be a relatively simple fix. The majority of the time the reason for this is excessive use of the handle and as a result of that, the square spindle within the handle will wear out, causing the springs to be displaced.
To fix this issue, you'll need to open the door towards the handle plate and unscrew all screws. This can be done using the help of a Philips screwdriver. Once the screws have been removed the handle can be removed. The handle plates can then be pulled apart. The old springs can be removed and replaced with new ones.
This is a crucial point to remember when purchasing a new handle. This measurement is known as the PZ and it is crucial to make use of a calibrated measuring tape to ensure an accurate reading.
After replacing the springs you should be able to operate the handle without issue. It is recommended to lubricate your internal mechanism to make sure that everything is functioning exactly as it should. This will not just ensure that your uPVC doors are as secure as they can be but will also make them more comfortable to use for a long time.
Handles that slide around
Handles that slide could be caused by a variety of things. One of the most common causes is when the levers of the handle are not aligned with the lock. This can happen with both uPVC and composite doors, but it is typically more evident on older doors because they are usually made of cheaper materials that don't hold up to the elements.
A professional can solve this issue by re-aligning the handles to ensure they are aligned with the lock. They'll also inspect the lock itself to determine what requires fixing. In upvc replacement door handles , a simple adjustment to the handle springs is all that's needed to solve this problem.
Changing your uPVC door handle is easy enough, but it's important to measure the handles that are in use to make sure you have the proper size replacement. You will need to measure the distance of the two screws, as well as the dimensions of the keyhole as well as the lever, and the distance between them. Then, you can make use of this uPVC handles size guide to locate the right replacement for your home.
Once you have the measurements The next step is to take off the old uPVC handles. It's usually a simple procedure and requires only an screwdriver. After the screws are removed, you can remove the handle and then proceed to install the new one.
Before you start, it's worth ensuring that the door is secured open by a wedge to stop it from closing during the course of your work. After removing the handle, you will be able to access the parts underneath the door that are causing the door to move.
A handyman from Fantastic Services will be able to help if you don't want to do the job yourself or don't have the skills. They will use specialist locksmith methods to open the door without causing damage, and then replace the damaged handle, ensuring that everything is in place and working as it should be.
Gearbox damaged
A damaged gearbox may cause the upvc handle to become stiff and lose its function. The lock could also not be able to opened with the use of a key. This is a risk and must be addressed as quickly as possible. If you're unable to solve the issue on your own, it is important to contact a locksmith as they are experts and have the tools needed to complete the task right.
The first step is to remove the handle from its cover plate. This can be done using a screwdriver with a flat head. After you have removed your handle, you are able to take out the middle screw that holds the barrel in position. After 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. You'll need to prop the door open to accomplish this, so be sure that you have someone to help.
Once you have removed the cylinder from the handle you can replace it with a new one. Make sure the new cylinder has the same dimensions as the old one. Otherwise, you may end up with a handle that isn't aligned properly. This can lead to a myriad of problems, such as leaks and draughts.
Most door handles made of upvc feature slots that allow for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten or loosen the handle. These slots are usually found on the inside of doors, near the place where the handle connects with the cylinder. Allen wrenches can be used to tighten the slots for adjustment. After you've made all the necessary adjustments then you can screw the handle in and put it back in its place. Then, you'll be able to test the handle to make sure that it is working properly.
If the upvc door handle is loose or sloppy when it is closed, this is usually a sign that the upvc gearbox has failed or the internal spring components are breaking down. This can cause the upvc multipoint lock to fail, leaving your door open to burglars. In this situation the gearbox made of upvc will require replacement. This will cost between PS145 to PS280 inclusive of labour.