Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
It's easy to replace your handles made of upvc however, choosing the correct handle can be a challenge. Modern double-glazed handles include spring cassettes within them, however older models don't have.
If the upvc handle of your multipoint lock is loose and floppy, there may be an internal issue. This article will address a number of potential problems & their causes.
Sagging or drooping handles
UPVC handles are prone to wear and tear, especially in older properties. The most common reason that handles become floppy is due to a broken spring cassette in the door lever. This is usually due to excessive force and the square spindle which holds the cassette could be moved or round off.
The good news is that a uPVC door handle replacement is a relatively simple job and can be done in a matter of minutes. The first step is to disassemble the handle unit that was previously installed by unscrewing the fixing screws visible on the back of the lever plate. Once the handles have been removed, you can unscrew and replace the cassette.
You can find a vast range of uPVC door handles to select from on the internet and a lot of them are available in various finishes. The finish you select will determine the life span of your handle and how easy it will be to clean. Finishes such as Resista, Stainless Steel, or PVD are designed to resist corrosion and last for up to 25 years.
Once you've selected a colour or style you can then select the type of handle you require. The most well-known types are lever and pad arrangements. Lever pads are commonly used to block access by unauthorised persons. They have both 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 to measure the PZ dimension which is the distance between the screw hole and the centre of the lever. It is also important to be aware of how long the handle is and the dimensions of its keyhole. Once you know the measurements, you can then compare them with the handle sizes matrix to determine the right replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, uPVC handles can become wobbly or loose. The spring cassette could also break. upvc door handle www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk are used to ensure that the lever is in a horizontal direction. Without them, your doors will not lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles come with these cassettes built into the back plate. These springs are typically integrated into older uPVC door mechanisms. This can't be fixed by yourself but it's worth asking your locksmith to look at this as it could be the reason for the sagging or drooping uPVC door handles.
One of the most common problems with uPVC door handles is that they become loose or wobbly with time. This is typically 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 in the handle wears down, which causes the springs to move.
In order to rectify this issue, open the door and loosen the fixing screws located at the back of the handle plate. This can be done using the Philips screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, the handle can be removed and the handle plates ripped apart with care. You can then remove the springs from the old ones and replace them with new springs.
Depending on the kind of handle you have the distance between the two fixing screws may differ and it is crucial to know prior to buying an alternative. This measurement is referred to as the PZ and it is essential to use a measuring tape that is calibrated for an exact reading.
After replacing the springs, you should be able to use the handle with no issues. It is important to oil your internal mechanism to make sure that everything is functioning exactly as it should. This will not only ensure that your uPVC doors are as secure as they can be but also make them more comfortable to use for a long time.
Handles that slide around
Handles that slide around can be caused by a number of things, one of the most common causes is when the handle levers aren't aligned properly with lock. This can happen on both uPVC doors and composite doors. However, it's more noticeable on older doors because they are constructed of lower quality materials that do not hold up to the elements.
A professional can solve this issue by rearranging the handles so that they are aligned with the lock. They will also check the lock to determine what needs to be fixed. In many cases, a small adjustment to the handle springs is all it takes to fix this issue.
It's simple to replace your uPVC handle however, you must measure the existing handle to ensure that the replacement is the correct size. You will need to measure the distance between the two screws, the size of the keyhole and lever, as well as the distance between them. Then, you can utilize this uPVC handle size guide to find the appropriate replacement for your home.
After you have made the measurements, you can remove the existing uPVC handle. This is typically quite simple and requires just a screwdriver reach the screws on the interior of the door. Once the screws have been removed, you can then remove the handle and then proceed to install the new one.
Before you begin making any changes, make sure that the door is securely open by a wedge to prevent it from closing during the course of your work. Once the handle is removed it is now possible to access the underlying parts of the door to correct the issues that cause it to sag.
A handyman from Fantastic Services will be able to assist you if want to do the work yourself or lack the nerves. They will employ specialist locksmith methods to open the door without causing any damage and will then replace the damaged handle, making sure everything is in place and working as it should be.
Gearbox damaged
A damaged gearbox can cause the handle made of upvc to become stiff and lose function. The lock could also not be able to opened with keys. This could be dangerous and should be addressed as soon as possible. It is essential to contact a locksmith if you are unable to solve the issue on your own. They have the tools and know-how to do the job right.
The first step is to remove the handle from the cover plate. You can do this using an instrument that has a flat-headed tip. After you have removed the handle, you will be able to remove the middle screw that holds the cylinder in place. After removing the middle screw, you'll be able loosen the two screws which secure the barrel. Then, you can remove the barrel out of the door. To accomplish this, you'll need someone to prop the door wide open.
After taking the cylinder off you can replace it with a new cylinder. It is crucial to ensure that the new cylinder is the exact size as the previous one. Otherwise, you could end with a handle that isn't aligned correctly. This can lead to a myriad of issues, including leaks and draughts.
Many upvc doors have adjustment slots that allow you to adjust the handle's tension or release. These slots are usually found on the inside of doors, close to the point where the handle joins the cylinder. The adjustment slots can be tightened by using an allen wrench. After you have made the adjustments you can place the handle back in place and screw it back into. Then, you'll be able to test the handle to make sure that it's functioning properly.
If the door handle of upvc becomes loose or floppy when closed, it's usually a sign that the gearbox in the upvc has been damaged or the internal spring components are in the process of breaking down. This can cause your upvc multipoint locks to fail leaving your door open to burglars. If this occurs, it is necessary to replace the gearbox. This will cost between PS145 to PS280 with the labor included.