Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
It's easy to replace your upvc handles, but choosing the right handle can be a challenge. Modern double glazed handles are fitted with spring cassettes, however older handles do not.
If the upvc handle on your multipoint lock is loose and floppy, there could be an internal problem. This article will address a number of potential problems and their causes.
Handles that are drooping or sagging
UPVC handles are prone to wear and tear, especially in older properties. The most frequent reason handles become floppy is due to a damaged spring cassette within the door lever. This is due to excessive force and the square spindle holding the cassette can be displaced or turned round.
It is good to be aware that a uPVC handle replacement can be accomplished in just a few minutes. The first step is to remove the old handle by unscrewing the fixing screws visible on the back of the handle lever plate. Once the handles have been removed you can remove the cassette from the square spindle and replace it with an entirely new one.
Online you can choose from a variety of uPVC handles that come with different finishes. The finish you choose will determine how long your handle will last and how easy it is to keep clean. Finishes like PVD, Stainless Steel or Resista are designed to resist corrosion and will last for up to 25 years.
After you have chosen a colour or style you can then select the type of handle you require. The most popular types are the lever and pad configurations. Lever pads are often used to block access by unauthorised persons. They have a lever inside and a paddle outside.
Next, measure and record the dimensions of the handle you currently have. You will need to know the PZ dimension (the distance from the screw hole to the centre of the lever) as well as the length of the handle and the dimensions of the keyhole. Once you have these measurements, you can then compare these with the handle sizes matrix to determine the appropriate replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, handles made of uPVC can become wobbly or loose. The spring cassette might also break. These springs help make sure that the lever of the handle 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 often built into older uPVC door mechanisms. This isn't something that can be fixed by yourself but it's worth asking your locksmith to take a look at as this could be the reason for the drooping or sagging uPVC door handles.
One of the most frequent problems that is commonly encountered with uPVC door handles is that they become unstable or wobbly after a certain period of time, and this is typically due to worn springs that can be an easy fix. This is typically caused by excessive handling of the handle. The square spindle of the handle will wear out and cause the springs to move.
To fix this, you will have to open the door to the handle plate and unscrew all the screws. This can be accomplished using the help of a Philips screwdriver. After the screws are removed, the handle can then be removed. The handle plates can then be carefully taken apart. Then you can take off the springs from the old ones and replace them with new springs.
This is important to note when purchasing a new handle. This measurement is referred to as the PZ and it is crucial to use a calibrated measuring tape for an exact reading.
After replacing the springs, you will be able to operate the handle without issue. It's worth lubricating your internal mechanism to ensure that everything is operating exactly as it should. This will ensure that your uPVC door is as safe as it can be, and also make them more comfortable as time passes.
Handles that slide around
Handles that slide around could be caused by a number of things, one of the most frequent causes is when the levers on the handle aren't aligned correctly with the lock. This can happen on both uPVC and composite doors, but it is typically more evident on older doors since they are usually made of cheap materials that aren't able to stand up well to the elements.
A professional can fix this issue by re-aligning the handles so that they are in line with the lock. They'll also examine the lock to determine if anything is required to be fixed. In many cases, a slight adjustment to the handle springs can fix the issue.
It's easy to replace your uPVC handle However, you must take measurements of the handle you have to ensure that the replacement is the correct size. You'll need to take measurements of the distance between the two screws, the dimensions of the keyhole and lever, and the distance between them. Then, utilize this uPVC handles size guide to find an appropriate replacement for your home.
Once you have the measurements then the next step is to take off the current uPVC handles. It's usually a straightforward procedure and requires only a screwdriver. Once the screws have been removed, you will need to take off the handle, and then replace the new handle.
It's important to secure the door with a wedge before you begin. This will stop it from closing during your work. After the handle has been removed, you can now access the underlying parts of the door to correct the problems that are causing it to sag.
If you don't have the time or nerves to tackle this task yourself, an expert handyman from Fantastic Services can help. door handle repairs will employ special lock picking techniques to unlock the doors without creating damage. They will then replace the broken handle and make sure everything works just as it should.
Gearbox damage
A damaged gearbox could cause the upvc handle to become stiff and lose its functionality. This could also stop the lock from being able be opened using keys. This could be dangerous and must be addressed as quickly as is feasible. If you are unable solve the issue on your own, it is important to contact a locksmith as they have the experience and tools necessary to complete the task properly.
The first step is to take the handle from its cover plate. This can be done using a screwdriver that has an angled tip. After you have removed the handle, you will be able to remove the middle screw that holds the barrel in place. Once you have removed this middle screw, you will then loosen the two screws that hold the barrel. Then you can take the barrel from the door. You will have to prop the door open to accomplish this, so be sure that you have someone to assist you.
After you have removed the cylinder, you can replace the cylinder with a new one. Make sure the new cylinder is the exact dimensions as the old one. In the event that it isn't, you could end up with a handle that isn't aligned correctly. This could lead to a number of problems such as leaks and drips.
Many upvc door handles have slots for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten or loosen the handle. These slots are usually found on the inside of the doors, near the place where the handle meets with the cylinder. The slots for adjustment can be tightened using an allen wrench. Once you have made the adjustments you can place the handle back on & screw it into. After that, you can test the handle to make sure that it's functioning properly.
The upvc door handle becoming loose when closed is typically an indication that the spring or gearbox components have broken down. This can cause your upvc multipoint locks to fail leaving your door open to burglars. In this case the gearbox made of upvc must be replaced. The cost will range from PS145 between PS145 and PS280 inclusive of labour.