Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
It’s easy to replace your handles made of upvc however, choosing the correct handle can be difficult. Modern double-glazed handles have spring cassettes built into the handles, but older ones don’t.
If the handle of your upvc is loose and floppy, it could be a problem with the internal parts of the multipoint lock. This article will address a variety of possible issues and their causes.
Handles that are drooping or sagging
UPVC handles are prone to wear and tear, particularly in older properties. The most common reason the handle becomes floppy because of a broken spring cassette in the door lever. This is due to excessive force and the spindle holding the cassette can be moved or rounded.
The good news is that a uPVC door handle replacement is a relatively simple job and can be accomplished in a matter of minutes. The first step is to take off the old handle unit. To do this, unscrew the fixing screws visible on the backside of the lever. Once the handles are removed, you can take them off and replace the cassette.
On the internet, you can select from a variety of uPVC handles that come with 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 for up to 25 years.
After choosing a color or style, you can choose the type of handle you require. The most common kinds are lever and pad arrangements. Lever pads are often used to block access by unauthorised persons. They are equipped with a lever inside and a paddle outside.
The next step is to determine the dimensions of your existing handle and note them down. You’ll need the PZ dimension (the distance from the screw hole to the middle of the lever) and the length of the handle, and the dimension of the keyhole. Once you know the measurements, you can then compare these to the handle size matrix to determine the appropriate replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, uPVC handles can become wobbly or loose. The spring cassette may also break. These springs are used to ensure that the lever is in a horizontal position. Without them, your doors will not lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles are made with these cassettes integrated directly into the backplate. The springs are usually integrated into older uPVC door mechanisms. This can’t be fixed by yourself, but it’s worth contacting your locksmith to take a look as this could be the reason behind the sagging or drooping uPVC door handles.
One of the most common issues associated with uPVC door handles is that they become loose or wobbly over time, and this is usually due to worn out springs that can be an easy fix. The reason for this is usually excessive handling of the handle. The square spindle of the handle will wear out and cause the springs to move.
To solve this issue, you’ll need open the door to the handle plate and then remove all the screws. This can be done by using the Philips screwdriver and once the screws are removed the handle can be removed and the plates pulled apart carefully. You can then remove the springs that were in use and replace them with new springs.
It is crucial to keep this in mind when purchasing a replacement handle. This measurement is referred to as the PZ measure. It is recommended that this is taken with an instrument that is calibrated to ensure accuracy.
After replacing the springs you will be able to operate the handle without issue. However, it’s always recommended to lubricate the mechanism inside to ensure that everything is working as it should do. 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 over time too.
Handles that slide around
Handles that move around can be caused by a variety of things, one of the most common is when the levers of the handle aren’t aligned properly with lock. This can happen on both uPVC and composite doors, but it is usually more noticeable on older doors since they are often made from less durable materials that don’t stand up well to the elements.
This problem can be solved by a professional who will realign the handles and make sure they’re in line with the door lock. They’ll also examine the lock to see if there is anything that requires fixing. In most cases, a small adjustment to the handle springs is all that’s needed to fix this issue.
Changing your uPVC door handle is simple enough, but it’s important to measure the measurements of the handles you have in place to make sure you have the correct size replacement. You will need to measure the distance of the two screws, as well as the size of the keyhole and lever, and the distance between them. Then, you can utilize this uPVC handle size guide to determine the appropriate replacement for your home.
Once you have the measurements then the next step is to eliminate the existing uPVC handles. This is typically quite simple and requires only a screwdriver to reach the screws that are on the inside of the door. Once the screws are removed, you will need to unscrew the handle and then replace the new one.
It is essential to secure the door with a wedge prior to starting. This will prevent it from closing during the course of your work. After you have removed the handle, you will be able to access the parts underneath the door that cause the door to slide.
If you don’t have the patience or energy to tackle this task on your own, a handyman from Fantastic Services can help. They will employ specialist locks to open the doors without damaging the door. They will then replace the damaged handle and ensure that everything works just as it should.
Gearbox damaged
A damaged gearbox may cause the upvc handle to become stiff and lose functionality. The lock may also be unable to be opened by the use of a key. This is a risk and should be addressed as soon as possible. It is crucial to contact a locksmith if you cannot solve the issue on your own. They have the equipment and knowledge to get the job done right.
The first step is to remove the handle from its cover plate. You can do this with the help of a screwdriver with flat-headed tips. Once you have removed the handle, you will be able to take out the middle screw that holds the cylinder in place. After you have removed the middle screw, you will then loosen the two screws that secure the barrel. Then you can pull the barrel out of the door. To do this, you will require someone to prop the external door handles and locks wide.
After you have removed the cylinder you can replace it with a brand new cylinder. Make sure that the new cylinder is the exact dimensions as the old one. Otherwise, you may end with a handle that isn’t aligned properly. This could cause a range of issues, such as leaks and drafts.
A lot of patio door handle handles made of upvc have slots for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten and loosen the handle. These slots are usually located on the inside of doors, near the spot where the handle joins the cylinder. The slots for adjustment can be tightened with an allen wrench. After you’ve made all the necessary adjustments you can screw the handle in and put it back in position. Then, you can test the handle and ensure it is working as expected.
The door handle made of upvc that becomes loose when closed is usually an indication that the spring or gearbox components have broken down. This could cause the multipoint lock made of upvc to fail and leave your door open to burglars. In this situation the gearbox made of upvc will require replacement. This will cost between PS145-PS280 including labor.