Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
It's easy to replace your upvc handles however, choosing the correct handle can be a bit difficult. Modern double-glazed handles come with spring cassettes, however older handles aren't.
If the upvc handle of your multipoint lock is loose and floppy, it could be an internal issue. This article will discuss the various possible issues & their causes.
Handles that are drooping or sagging
UPVC handles can withstand wear and tear, especially in older properties. The most common reason the handle becomes floppy because of a broken spring cassette inside the door lever. This is due to excessive force and the spindle that holds the cassette could be dislocated or round.
The good news is that replacing the door handle with uPVC is a relatively simple job and can be done in a matter of minutes. The first step is removing the old handle unit. To remove it, loosen the fixing screws on the backside of the lever. Once the handles have been removed, you can unscrew and replace the cassette.
You can find a wide selection of uPVC door handles to pick from on the internet and a lot of them are available in various finishes. The finish you choose will determine the longevity of your handle and how easy it will be to clean. Finishes such as PVD, Stainless Steel or Resista are made to withstand corrosion and will last up to 25 years.
After you have selected a colour or style, you can choose the type of handle that you need. The most popular types are the lever and pad configurations. Lever pads are typically used to block access by unauthorised persons. They have an inside lever and a paddle outside.
The next step is to measure the dimensions of your existing handle and write them down. You'll need 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 dimensions of the keyhole. You can compare these measurements to the size matrix of the handle to find the correct replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, the handles of uPVC doors are prone to becoming wobbly or loose and at times the spring cassette inside may break. These springs help align the handle lever in a horizontal direction. Without them your doors will not lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles are constructed with these cassettes directly built into the backplate. However, older uPVC doors usually have these springs built into the actual lock mechanism. It is not something you can repair by yourself, but it's worth asking your locksmith to examine the issue as it could be causing the sagging uPVC handles.
The most common issue associated with uPVC handles is that they become loose as time passes. This is usually caused by worn out springs, which are easy to fix. The reason for this is usually excessive handling of the handle. The square spindle inside the handle will wear down and causes the springs to move.
To correct this, you'll need to open the door and remove the fixing screws located 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 removed. The plates for the handle are then able to be gently removed. The old springs can be removed and replaced with new ones.
This is a crucial point to remember when buying a replacement handle. This measurement is referred to as the PZ measure. It is recommended that this is measured using a calibrated tape measure to ensure accuracy.
After replacing the springs, you should be able to operate the handle without issue. But, it's recommended to lubricate the mechanism inside to ensure that everything works exactly as it should. This will not only ensure that your uPVC doors are as secure as possible but also make them more comfortable to operate in the long run.
Handles that slide around
Handles that move around can 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 on both uPVC and composite doors, but it is generally more noticeable on older doors since they are usually made of cheaper materials that don't hold up to the elements.
A professional can address this problem by realigning the handles so that they are in line with the lock. They'll also examine the lock to see if anything requires fixing. In many cases, a simple adjustment to the handle springs is all it takes to fix this issue.
It's easy to replace your uPVC handle however, you must measure the handle that you are replacing to ensure that the new one is the correct size. You'll need to measure the distance between the two fixing screws and the dimensions of the lever and key-hole position. Then, utilize this uPVC handles size guide to locate an appropriate replacement for your home.
After you have taken the measurements, take off the old uPVC handle. It's usually a straightforward process and only requires a screwdriver. Once the screws have been removed, you are able to unscrew the handle itself and then proceed to install the new one.
It is essential to secure the door using an appropriate wedge prior to beginning. This will prevent it from closing during your work. After you remove the handle, you will be able to access the parts beneath the door that cause the door to slip.
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 as it should.
Gearbox damage
A damaged gearbox may cause the handle made of upvc to become stiff and lose functionality. This can also prevent the lock from being able to be opened with the use of a key. This is extremely dangerous and should be addressed as soon as possible. It is crucial to contact a locksmith if you are unable to solve the issue yourself. They have the equipment and knowledge to get the job done right.
The first step is to take the handle from its cover plate. door handle repair bradford Repair My Windows And Doors can be done using an instrument that has an angled tip. After you remove the handle, remove the middle screw that holds the cylinder. After you have removed the middle screw, you can then loosen the two screws that secure the barrel. You can then pull the barrel from the door. You will have to prop the door open to accomplish this, so be sure you have someone on hand to assist you.
After you have removed the cylinder you can replace it with a brand new cylinder. It is important to ensure that the new cylinder is the same size as the old one. In the event that it isn't, you could end having an unaligned handle properly. This can lead to a myriad of problems, such as leaks and drips.
Many doors made of upvc feature adjustment slots that can be used to adjust the handle's tension or release. These are usually located on the inside of the door close to where the handle is connected to the cylinder. The adjustment slots can be tightened using an allen wrench. After you've made the required adjustments, you can screw the handle in and then put it back into position. You can then test the handle to ensure it functions as intended.
The upvc door handle becoming loose when closed is typically an indication that the gearbox or internal spring components have broken down. This could cause your upvc multipoint locks to fail, leaving your door wide open to intrusion. If this occurs, it is necessary to replace the upvc gearbox. The cost will range from PS145 to PS280 inclusive of labour.