Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
Replacing your upvc door handles is relatively easy however choosing the right handle can be difficult. Modern double-glazed handles are equipped with spring cassettes, however older handles do not.
If your upvc handle is loose and floppy, there could be an issue with the internal parts of the multipoint lock. This article will address several possible problems & their causes.
Handles that are drooping or sagging
UPVC handles can withstand wear and tear, especially in older properties. A broken spring cassette inside the door lever is the most common reason for a floppy handle. This is usually due to an 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 handrail replacement can be done in a matter of minutes. The first step is to remove the old handle unit by unscrewing the fixing screws that are visible on the side of the lever plate. Once the handles have been removed, you can take them off and replace the cassette.
Online you can choose from a wide selection of uPVC handles available in a variety of finishes. Selecting the right finish will determine how long your handle will last as well as how it is easy to keep clean. Finishes such as PVD, Stainless Steel or Resista are designed to withstand corrosion and will last up to 25 years.
Once you've selected a colour or style you can then choose the type of handle you require. The most commonly used types are pad and lever arrangements. Lever pads are commonly used to block access by unauthorised persons. They are equipped with a lever inside and a paddle on the outside.
The next step is to determine the dimensions of your current handle and write them down. You'll need the PZ dimension (the distance from the screw hole to the middle of the lever), the length of the handle and the dimensions of the keyhole. Once you have these measurements, you can then compare them to the handle size matrix to determine the right replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, uPVC handles can become wobbly or loose. The spring cassette might also break. These tiny springs help bring the handle lever into a horizontal position and without them, doors won't lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles come with these cassettes incorporated directly into the back plate. These springs are often 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 take a look at this as it could be the cause of the drooping or sagging uPVC door handles.
The most frequent issue that is encountered with uPVC handles is that they tend to loosen over time. This is usually due to worn-out springs, which are simple to fix. This is usually caused by excessive handling of the handle. The square spindle inside the handle will wear down, which causes the springs to move.
To fix this issue, open the door and remove the fixing screws at the back of the handle plate. This can be done with a Philips screwdriver. Once the screws have been removed the handle can be taken off. The plates for the handle can then be pulled apart. Then, you can remove the old springs and replace them with fresh 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 the replacement. This measurement is referred to as the PZ and it is essential to use a calibrated measuring tape for an precise reading.
After reinstalling the springs, you should be able to operate the handle without any issues. But, it's worth lubricating the mechanism inside to make sure that everything functions exactly as it should. This will ensure that your uPVC door is as secure as it is, and make them more comfortable in the long run.
Handles that slide around
Handles that slide could be caused by a variety of things. One of the most common causes is that the levers of the handle are not aligned with the lock. This can happen on both uPVC doors as well as composite doors. However, it is more noticeable on older doors because they are made of cheaper materials that aren't able to stand up to the elements.
A professional can address this problem by realigning the handles so that they are aligned with the lock. They'll also examine the lock itself to determine whether there's anything that needs fixing. In most instances, a minor adjustment to the handle springs is all it takes to fix this issue.
Changing your uPVC door handle is easy enough, but you need to measure the handles you have in place to ensure you have the proper size replacement. You'll need to take measurements of the distance between the two fixing screws and the dimensions of the lever as well as the key-hole position. Then, you can use this uPVC handle size guide to determine the appropriate 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 process and only requires an screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you can unscrew the handle itself and then move onto installing the new one.
It is important to secure the door using an appropriate wedge prior to beginning. This will stop it from closing during the course of your work. After you remove the handle, you will be able to inspect the components underneath the door that cause the door to slide.
A handyman from Fantastic Services will be able to assist you if want to do the job yourself or aren't confident enough. They will use specialist locks to unlock the doors without causing damage. Then they will replace the broken handle and make sure everything is working just as it should.
Gearbox damage
A damaged gearbox may cause the upvc door handle to become stiff or lose its functionality. The lock may also not be able to opened using a key. This could be dangerous and should be addressed as soon as is feasible. If you are unable solve the problem yourself it is essential to get in touch with a locksmith because they have the experience and tools to do the job correctly.
The first step is to remove the handle from the cover plate. This can be done by using a screwdriver that has flat heads. After you have removed the handle, you can then take out the middle screw that holds the cylinder in the position. Once you have removed the middle screw, you will then loosen the two screws that secure the barrel. You can then remove the barrel from the door. To do this, you will require someone to prop the door wide.
Once you have removed your cylinder from the handle you can replace it with a fresh one. Make sure that the new cylinder is the same dimensions as the old one. Otherwise, you may end with a handle that isn't aligned properly. This could cause a number of problems that could cause leaks and drafts.
window handles have slots that allow for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten and loosen the handle. They are usually on the inside of the door near where the handle is connected to the cylinder. The adjustment slots can be tightened by using an allen wrench. After you've made all the necessary adjustments then you can screw the handle in and put it back in place. Then, you can test the handle to ensure it functions as intended.
If the upvc door handle is loose or sloppy when it is closed, it's usually an indication that the gearbox in the upvc has failed or the internal spring components are breaking down. This can cause the multipoint lock from upvc to fail and leave your door open to intruders. In this situation, the upvc gearbox will require replacement. The cost will range from PS145 between PS145 and PS280 with the labor included.