Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement

Replacing your door handles made of upvc is a relatively simple job however choosing the right handle can be a challenge. Modern double glazed handles are fitted with spring cassettes, but older handles aren't.

If your upvc handle is loose and floppy, it could be an issue with the internal parts of the multipoint lock. This article will cover the various possible issues & their causes.

Sagging or drooping handles

upvc door locks and handles handles can sustain wear and tear, particularly in older properties. The most common reason that handles become floppy is because of a broken spring cassette in the door lever. This is typically caused by excessive force, and the square spindle which holds the cassette can become displaced or the cassette can be rounded off.

It is a good thing to know that a uPVC handrail replacement can be completed in a matter of minutes. The first step is to take off the handle unit that was previously used. To remove it, loosen the fixing screws visible on the back of the handle lever. Once the handles are removed, you can unscrew and replace the cassette.

Online you can choose from a variety of uPVC handles available in different finishes. Choosing the right finish will determine how long the 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.

Once you have selected a colour or style you can then choose the type of handle you require. The most common types are pad and lever arrangement. Lever pads are equipped with a lever on the inside and an outside paddle which is typically employed as a security measure to stop unauthorised access.

The next step is to measure the dimensions of your existing handle and write them down. You will need to measure the PZ dimension which is the distance between the screw hole and the middle of the lever. You'll also need to know how long the handle is and the dimensions of its keyhole. Once you have the measurements you can then compare them to the handle size matrix to determine the right replacement.

Broken springs

Over time, the handles of uPVC doors are prone to becoming wobbly or loose and at times the spring cassette inside could break. These little springs help to move the lever into a horizontal position and without them, doors will not lock properly.

Modern uPVC handles are designed with these cassettes directly built into the backplate. These springs are typically installed into older uPVC doors mechanisms. This isn't something you can be fixed on your own, but it's worth contacting your locksmith to take a look at as this could be the reason for the sagging or drooping uPVC door handles.

One of the most frequent problems that is commonly encountered with uPVC door old aluminium window handles is that they get loose or wobbly with time, and this is typically due to worn-out springs, which is a relatively simple fix. Most often it is due to excessive use of the handle, and as a result of that the square spindle in the handle will wear out and cause the springs to be displaced.

To solve this issue, you'll need to open the door towards the handle plate and unscrew all the screws. This can be done by using a Philips screwdriver and once the screws have been removed, the handle can be removed and the handle plates ripped apart with care. The springs that were used before can be removed and replaced with new springs.

It is crucial to keep this in mind when purchasing a new handle. This measurement is known as the PZ measure. It is recommended that this measurement is taken with an instrument that is calibrated for accuracy.

After replacing the springs, you should be able to use the handle without issue. It is recommended to lubricate the internal mechanism to ensure that everything is operating just as it should. This will not just ensure that your uPVC doors are as safe as they can be but also makes them more comfortable to use in the long run.

Handles that slide around

Handles that slide are caused by a variety of things. One of the most common causes is that the levers of the handle are not aligned with the lock. This can happen with uPVC doors and composite doors. However, it's more noticeable on older doors because they are made of cheaper materials that do not hold up to the elements.

A professional can address this issue by re-aligning the handles so that they are in line with the lock. They'll also inspect the lock to determine whether anything is required to be fixed. In many cases, a slight adjustment to the handle springs can solve the issue.

It's easy to replace your uPVC handle however, you must measure the existing handle to ensure that the replacement is of the right size. You'll need to determine the distance between two screws, the dimensions of the keyhole and lever, as well as the distance between them. Then, you can utilize this uPVC handle size guide to find the right replacement for your home.

After you have made the measurements, take off the current uPVC handle. This is typically quite simple and requires a screwdriver to reach the screws that are on the inside of the door. Once the screws are removed, you can take off the handle itself and then install the new handle.

Before starting, it's worth ensuring that the door is securely open using a wedge to prevent it from closing during the course of your work. After you have removed the handle, you'll be able to access the parts underneath the door that are causing the door to move.

A handyman from Fantastic Services will be able to assist you if want to do the job yourself or don't have the skills. They will employ specialist locks to unlock the doors without causing damage. They will then replace the broken handle and ensure that everything works just as it should.

Gearbox damage

A damaged gearbox could cause the upvc handle to become stiff and lose its functionality. The lock may also not be able to be opened by keys. This is a risk and must be addressed as quickly as possible. It is essential to contact an expert locksmith if you can't solve the issue yourself. They have the tools and know-how to do the job right.

The first step is to unhook the handle from its cover plate. This can be done by using a screwdriver with a flat head. After removing the handle, take out the middle screw that is holding the barrel. Once you have removed this middle screw, you can then loosen the two screws that secure the barrel. You can then remove the barrel away from the door. To do this, you will need someone to hold the door open.

After you have removed the cylinder, you can replace with a brand new cylinder. Make sure that the new cylinder has the same size as the previous one. You might end up with an incorrectly aligned handle. This can lead to a myriad of problems, such as leaks and draughts.

A lot of door handles made of upvc have slots that allow for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten and loosen the handle. They are usually on the inside of the door, near where the handle meets the cylinder. The slots for adjustment can be tightened with an allen wrench. After you've made all the necessary adjustments then you can screw the handle into and put it back in place. Then, you'll be able to test the handle to make sure that it is working correctly.

The upvc door handle becoming loose when closed is usually an indication that the spring or gearbox components have broken down. This could cause the multipoint lock made of upvc to fail, leaving your door handle repair near me (try what he says) open to intrusion. If this happens, it will be necessary to replace the upvc chrome door handles gearbox. The cost will range from PS145 - PS280, including labour.