Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
Replacing your upvc door handles is a relatively simple job but picking the right handle can be difficult. Modern double glazed handles are equipped with spring cassettes, however older handles don't.
If your upvc handle is loose and floppy, there could be a problem with the internal parts of the multipoint lock. This article will look at a number of possible causes and the potential solutions.
Handles that sag or droop
UPVC handles are prone to wear and tear, particularly in older properties. The most common reason the handle becomes floppy due to a broken spring cassette within the door lever. This is caused by a lot of force and the spindle that holds the cassette may be dislocated or round.
It is good to know that a uPVC handrail replacement can be completed in just a few minutes. The first step is to remove the handle unit that was previously used. To remove it, you must unscrew the fixing screws visible on the back of the lever. Once the handles are removed you can then remove the cassette from the square spindle, and replace it with the new one.
There is a wide range of uPVC door handles to select from on the internet and a lot of them are available in various finishes. Choosing the right finish will determine the length of time the handle will last and how it is easy to keep clean. Finishes like PVD, Stainless Steel or Resista are designed to withstand corrosion and will last up to 25 years.
Once you've selected the color or style, you can choose the type of handle you require. The most popular are pad and lever arrangements. Lever pads have a lever on the inside and an outside paddle which is typically used as a security device to prevent unauthorised access.
The next step is to determine the dimensions of your current handle and write them down. 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 and the size of the keyhole. Once you have the measurements you can then compare these to the handle sizes matrix to find the correct replacement.
Broken springs
Over time uPVC door handles can get loose or wobbly and at times the spring cassette inside might break. The tiny springs bring the handle lever to a horizontal position, and without them, your doors will not 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 fix by yourself, but it's definitely worthwhile to have your locksmith examine the situation as this could be the cause of the sagging uPVC handles.
The most common issue that is encountered with uPVC handles is that they become loose as time passes. This is usually caused by worn-out springs, which are easy to fix. Most often it is due to excessive use of the handle, and because of that the square spindle in the handle will wear away, causing the springs to shift out of position.
To correct this issue, open the door and unscrew the fixing screws located at the back of the handle plate. 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 with care. The springs that were used before can be removed and replaced with new springs.
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 operate the handle without any problems. It is recommended to lubricate the internal mechanism to ensure that everything is working just as it should. This will ensure that your uPVC door is as secure as it could be, and make them more comfortable as time passes.
Handles that slide around
Handles that slide around could be caused by a number different reasons. One of the most common is when the levers of the handle aren't aligned properly with lock. This can happen with both uPVC and composite doors, however it is generally more noticeable on older doors since they are often made from less durable materials that don't resist the elements.
A professional can address this issue by re-aligning the handles so that they are aligned with the lock. They'll also examine the lock to determine whether anything needs to be fixed. In many cases, a minor adjustment to the handle springs will 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 replacement is of the right size. You'll need to determine the distance between the two screws, as well as the dimensions of the keyhole and lever, and the distance between them. You can then use this uPVC handle size guide to determine the right replacement for your home.
After you have taken the measurements, you can remove the existing uPVC handle. This is typically quite simple and requires a screwdriver to reach the screws on the interior of the door. Once the screws have been removed, you will need to take off the handle, and then put in the new handle.
It is essential to secure the door using a wedge prior to starting. This will stop it from closing during your work. After the handle has been removed, you can now inspect the underside of the door to correct the issues that cause it to slip.
If you don't have time or energy to tackle this job yourself, an expert handyman from Fantastic Services can help. They will employ special locks to open the doors without causing damage. They will then replace the damaged handle and make sure that everything works exactly as it should.
Gearbox damaged
A damaged gearbox can cause the upvc handle to become stiff and lose function. This can also prevent the lock from being able be opened with keys. This is extremely dangerous and should be dealt with promptly. If you are unable solve the problem yourself, it is important to contact a locksmith as they have the experience and tools to get the job done properly.
repairmywindowsanddoors is to remove the handle from the cover plate. This can be done by using a screwdriver equipped with flat heads. After removing the handle, take out the middle screw that is holding the barrel. After removing the middle screw, you'll be able loosen the two screws which are holding the barrel. Then, you can remove the barrel away from the door. You'll have to open the door to accomplish this, so make sure that you have someone to assist you.
After you have removed the cylinder from the handle you can replace it with a new one. Make sure that the new cylinder is the same dimensions as the old one. Otherwise, you may end up with a handle that isn't aligned correctly. This can lead to numerous issues that could cause leaks and drips.
Most door handles made of upvc feature slots that allow for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten or loosen the handle. The slots are typically located on the inside of doors, close to the point where the handle meets with the cylinder. Allen wrenches can be used to tighten the slots for adjustment. After you have made your adjustments you can place the handle back in place and screw it back in. You can then test the handle and make sure it is working as expected.
If the door handle made of upvc is loose or sloppy when it is closed, it's usually a sign that the gearbox in the upvc has broken down or internal spring components are in the process of breaking down. This could cause your upvc multipoint locks to fail, leaving your door wide open to intruders. In this scenario the upvc gearbox will require replacement. The cost will range from PS145 - PS280, including labour.