(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Glass-Replacement-150x150.jpg)Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
It's easy to replace your handles made of upvc however choosing the best handle can be difficult. Most modern double glazed handles come with spring cassettes in them, however older models don't have.
If the upvc handle of your multipoint lock is loose and floppy, there may be an internal problem. This article will discuss several possible causes and the potential solutions.
Sagging or drooping handles
UPVC handles are prone to wear and tear. This is particularly true in older properties. A broken spring cassette in the door lever is the most common reason for a handle that is floppy. This is typically caused by an excessive force and the square spindle that holds the cassette could be moved or the cassette can be rounded off.
The good news is that replacing the door handle made of uPVC is a relatively simple job and can be done within a couple of minutes. The first step is to remove the old handle by removing the fixing screws visible on the back of the handle lever plate. Once the handles have been removed you can then remove the cassette from the square spindle, and replace it with the new one.
Online you can choose from a variety of uPVC handles and hinges available with different finishes. The finish you select will determine the longevity of your handle as well as how it will be easy to clean. Finishes like Resista, Stainless Steel, or PVD are designed to resist corrosion and last up to 25 years.
Once you have selected the colour or style you can then select the type of handle you require. The most popular types are lever and pad arrangements. Lever pads are equipped with an inside lever and a paddle on the outside and are often used as a security feature to stop unauthorised access.
Then, you should measure and record the dimensions of the handle you have. You will need to measure the PZ dimension which is the distance between the screw hole and the middle of the lever. It is also important to know how long the handle is and the dimensions of its keyhole. Once you have these measurements, you can then compare these with the handle sizes matrix to find the correct replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, the handles of uPVC doors may become wobbly or loose and at times the spring cassette inside may break. These little springs help to bring the handle lever to a horizontal position. without them, doors will not lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles come with these cassettes built directly into the back plate. These springs are typically installed into older uPVC doors mechanisms. This can't be fixed on your own, but it's worth contacting your locksmith to look at this as it could be the reason behind the sagging or drooping uPVC door handles.
One of the most common problems that is commonly encountered with uPVC euro door handles handles is that they get unstable or wobbly after a certain period of time. This is usually due to worn out springs which can be an easy fix. This is usually caused by excessive handling of the handle. The square spindle in the handle wears down and causes the springs to move.
To fix this, you will need to open the door towards the handle plate, then unwind all screws. This can be done using the Philips screwdriver. Once the screws have been removed, the handle can be removed and the handle plates pulled apart carefully. You can then remove the springs that were in use and replace them with new springs.
Depending on the type of handle you are using the distance between the two fixing screws may differ and it is important to know when buying the replacement. This measurement is known as the PZ and it is important to use a calibrated measuring tape to ensure an accurate reading.
After replacing the springs, you should be able to use the handle without any problems. It is recommended to lubricate the internal mechanism to make sure that everything is functioning exactly as it should. This will not just ensure that your uPVC doors are as secure as possible but will also make them more comfortable to use for a long time.
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 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 issue by rearranging the handles to ensure they are aligned 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 springs of the handle can fix the issue.
It's easy to replace your uPVC handle however, you must measure the existing handle to ensure that the replacement is the correct size. You'll need to take measurements of the distance between the two fixing screws as well as the dimensions of the lever and key-hole position. Then, you can utilize this uPVC changing window handles (fakenews.win) size guide to find a replacement for your home.
After you've taken the measurements, remove the existing uPVC handle. This is typically quite simple and requires just a screwdriver get to the screws on the interior of the door. Once the screws are removed, you can take off the handle itself and then install the new handle.
Before you start the work, you should ensure that the door is secured open using a wedge to prevent it from closing in the middle of your work. After removing the handle, you'll be able to access the parts beneath the door that cause the door to move.
A handyman from Fantastic Services will be able to help if you don't want to do the job yourself or aren't confident enough. They will use specialist locksmith opening methods to open the door without causing any damage, and then replace the faulty handle, ensuring that everything is in place and functioning exactly as it should.
Gearbox damaged
A damaged gearbox can cause the handle made of upvc to become stiff and lose its functionality. The lock could also be unable to be opened using a key. This is extremely dangerous and should be dealt with as soon as possible. It is important to call a locksmith if you cannot solve the issue yourself. They have the tools and know-how to get the job done right.
The first step is to unhook the handle from its cover plate. You can do this with the help of a screwdriver with an angled tip. After you have removed the handle, you can then remove the middle screw that holds the cylinder in the position. After removing the middle screw, you'll be able to loosen the two screws that hold the barrel. Then you can take the barrel out of the door. To accomplish this, you'll require someone to hold the door open.
Once you have removed the cylinder from the handle, you can replace it with a new one. Make sure that the new cylinder is the exact size as the previous one. You might have an incorrectly aligned handle. This can lead to a myriad of problems, such as leaks and drafts.
Many upvc door handles have slots for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten and loosen the handle. They are usually on the inside of the door close to where the handle joins the cylinder. The adjustment slots can be tightened with an allen wrench. After you've made all the necessary adjustments then you can screw the handle in and put it back in place. Then, you'll be able to test the handle to make sure that it is working properly.
The door handle of upvc becoming floppy when closed is usually an indication that the gearbox or internal spring components have broken down. This can cause your upvc multipoint locks to fail, leaving your door wide open to burglars. In this case, the upvc gearbox will require replacement. The cost will range from PS145 to PS280, including labour.