Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
Replacing your door handles made of upvc is an easy task but selecting the correct handle can be a challenge. The majority of modern double-glazed handles come with spring cassettes in the handles, but older ones don't.
If the upvc handle on your multipoint lock is sloppy and floppy, there could be an internal problem. This article will look at a number of potential problems and their causes.
Handles that slide 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 caused by excessive force and the square spindle that holds the cassette may be moved or rounded.
It is good to be aware that a uPVC handle replacement can be completed in just a few minutes. The first step is to take off the old handle unit. To do this, unscrew the fixing screws that are visible on the backside of the lever. Once the handles have been removed, you can take them off and replace the cassette.
On the internet, you can select from a range of uPVC handles available with different finishes. Selecting the right finish will determine how long the handle will last and how it is easy to keep clean. Finishes like 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 you require. The most common types are pad and lever arrangements. Lever pads feature a lever on the inside and a paddle on the outside which is typically used as a security feature to block access by unauthorised persons.
Then, you should 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 center of the lever), the length of the handle as well as the dimensions of the keyhole. Once you have the measurements you can then compare them to the handle size matrix to determine the appropriate replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, the handles of uPVC doors may become wobbly or loose and at times the spring cassette inside might break. These springs are used to ensure that the lever is in a horizontal position. Without them the doors won't lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles come with these cassettes incorporated directly into the back plate. These springs are typically integrated into older uPVC door mechanisms. This can't be fixed on your own, but it's worth contacting your locksmith to take a look at this as it could be the reason for the drooping or sagging uPVC door handles.
One of the most frequent issues associated with uPVC door handles is that they get loose or wobbly with time, and this is typically due to worn-out springs that can be easily fixed. The majority of the time it is due to excessive use of the handle, and as a result, the square spindle within the handle will wear away and the springs will move out of place.
To fix this, you will have to open the door to the handle plate, then unwind all the screws. This can be done with the help of a Philips screwdriver. After the screws have been removed, the handle can then be taken off. The plates for the handle can then be removed. You can then remove the springs that were in use and replace them with fresh springs.
Depending on the kind of handle you have the distance between the two fixing screws can vary and this is essential to know before buying an alternative. This measurement is referred to as the PZ measure. It is recommended that it be taken with an accurate tape measure in order to be accurate.
After replacing the springs you should be able to operate the handle with no issues. But, it's recommended to lubricate the mechanism inside to ensure that everything is working as it should do. This will not only ensure that your uPVC doors are as secure as possible but will also make them more comfortable to operate for a long time.
Handles that slide around
Handles that slide are caused by a variety of factors. One of the most common causes is that the levers of the handle aren't aligned with the lock. This can happen with uPVC doors and composite doors. However, it is more evident on older doors because they are made of less durable materials that aren't able to stand up to the elements.
A professional can address this issue by rearranging the handles to ensure that they are in line with the lock. They will also look at the lock itself to see what needs fixing. In many cases, a small adjustment to the handle springs can fix the issue.
Changing your uPVC door handle is easy enough, but it's important to measure the existing handles 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 as well as the key-hole position. Then, you can use this uPVC handle size guide to find the right replacement for your home.
Once you have the measurements The next step is to take off the existing uPVC handles. It's usually a straightforward procedure and requires only an screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you will need to unscrew the handle and then replace the new handle.
Before you start, it's worth ensuring that the door is securely open with a door wedge to stop it from closing in the middle of your work. After you have removed the handle, you can now inspect the underside of the door to fix the issues that are causing it to sag.
A handyman from Fantastic Services will be able to assist you if want to do the work yourself or aren't confident enough. They will employ special lock picking techniques to open the doors without causing damage. Then they will replace the damaged handle and make sure that everything works just as it should.
Gearbox damaged
A damaged gearbox may cause the upvc door handle to become stiff or lose its function. The lock may also not be able to be opened by the use of a key. This is extremely dangerous and should be dealt with as soon as possible. If you are unable to resolve the issue yourself it is crucial to get in touch with a locksmith because they are experts and have the tools to complete the task properly.
The first step is to remove the handle from the cover plate. This can be accomplished using a screwdriver that has flat heads. After removing the handle, you need to remove the middle screw that is holding the cylinder. After removing the middle screw, you will be able to loosen the two screws which are holding the barrel. You can then pull the barrel away from the door. To do this, you will need someone to prop the door wide.
After taking the cylinder off you can replace it with a brand new cylinder. Make sure the new cylinder is the same size as your old one. In the event that it isn't, you could end up with an unaligned handle properly. upvc replacement door handles could cause a range of issues, such as leaks and drips.
Many upvc door handles have slots for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten and loosen the handle. The slots are typically located on the inside of the doors, close to the point where the handle meets with the cylinder. The adjustment slots can be tightened 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. You can then test the handle and make sure it functions as intended.
If the door handle made of upvc becomes floppy or loose when closed, it's usually an indication that the upvc gearbox has failed or the internal spring components are breaking down. This could cause your multipoint locks made from upvc to fail and leave your door open to intruders. If this happens, it will be required to replace the upvc gearbox. The cost will range from PS145 to PS280, including labour.