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Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement

Replacing your door handles made of upvc is a relatively simple job but selecting the correct handle can be a challenge. Most modern double glazed handles come with spring cassettes in them, however older models don’t have.

If your upvc handle seems loose and floppy, there could be an issue with the internal parts of the multipoint lock. This article will address several possible problems & their causes.

Handles that sag or drop

uPVC handles can sustain wear and tear, especially in older properties. The most common reason that the handle becomes floppy due to a broken spring cassette inside the door lever. This is typically caused by excessive force and the square spindle that supports the cassette can become displaced or round off.

It is good to be aware that a uPVC handle replacement can be completed in just a few minutes. The first step is to take off the old handle unit. To remove it, loosen the fixing screws visible on the backside of the handle lever. Once the handles are removed you can then remove the cassette from the square spindle and replace with the new one.

There is a wide range of uPVC door handles to choose from on the internet and a lot of them come in a variety of finishes. The finish you choose will determine the life span of your handle and how it is easy to clean. Finishes like PVD, Stainless Steel or Resista are made to withstand corrosion and will last for up to 25 years.

After choosing a color or style, you can select the type of handle that you need. The most popular are the lever and pad configurations. Lever pads are equipped with a lever on the inside and an outside paddle which is typically used as a security device to prevent unauthorised access.

The next step is to determine the dimensions of your existing handle and record them. You’ll need to determine the PZ dimension which is the distance between the screw hole and the centre of your lever. You’ll also need to determine how long the handle is and the size of its keyhole. Once you have these measurements, you can then compare them to the handle size matrix to determine the right replacement.

Broken springs

Over time, uPVC handles can become wobbly or loose. The spring cassette may also break. These springs 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 directly into the back plate. These springs are often integrated into older uPVC door mechanisms. This can’t be fixed by yourself, but it is worth getting your locksmith to look at as this could be the reason behind the drooping or sagging uPVC door handles.

The most common issue that is encountered with uPVC handles is that they loosen over time. This is usually due to worn-out springs that are easy to repair. This is typically caused by excessive handling of the handle. The square spindle of the handle will wear down, which causes the springs to move.

To fix this, you’ll need to open the door and unscrew the fixing screws at the back of the handle plate. This can be accomplished using the Philips screwdriver and once the screws have been removed, the handle can be removed and the handle plates ripped apart carefully. The springs that were used before can be removed and replaced with new springs.

This is a crucial point to remember when purchasing a new handle. This measurement is referred to as the PZ and it is essential to use a measuring tape that is calibrated to ensure an exact reading.

After replacing the springs you should be able to use the handle without issue. However, it’s always recommended to lubricate the mechanism inside to ensure that everything is working exactly as it should. This will not only ensure that your uPVC doors are as secure as they can be but will also make them more comfortable to operate over time too.

Handles that slide around

Handles that slide could be caused by many things. One of the most frequent causes is that the levers of the handle are not aligned with the lock. This can happen on both uPVC and composite doors, but is usually more noticeable on older doors because they are often made from cheap materials that aren’t able to resist the elements.

This issue can be fixed by a professional, who will realign the handles and ensure they’re in line with the door lock. They’ll also examine the lock to determine what requires fixing. In many cases, a simple adjustment to the handle springs is all it takes to fix this issue.

It’s simple to replace your uPVC handle, but you need to take measurements of the handle you have to ensure that the replacement is the correct size. window handles ‘ll need to determine the distance of two screws, the dimensions of the keyhole and lever, and the distance between them. Then, make use of this uPVC handles size guide to find an appropriate replacement for your home.

Once you have the measurements, the next step is to take off the current uPVC handles. It’s usually a simple process and only requires a screwdriver. Once the screws have been removed, you can take off the handle itself and then install the new one.

Before you begin the work, you should ensure that the door is secured open using a wedge to prevent it from closing during the course of your work. Once the handle is removed you’ll be able to inspect the underside of the door to correct the issues that cause it to slip.

If you don’t have time or the energy to complete this task yourself, an expert handyman from Fantastic Services can help. They will use specialist locksmith opening methods to open the door without causing any damage and will then replace the faulty handle, making sure everything is in place and functioning exactly as it should.

Gearbox damaged

A damaged gearbox can cause the upvc handle to become stiff and lose its function. This can also prevent the lock from being able to be opened using the use of a key. This could be dangerous and must be addressed as quickly as possible. It is crucial to contact an expert locksmith if you can’t solve the issue on your own. They have the equipment and knowledge to do the job right.

The first step is to remove the handle from the cover plate. This can be done by using a screwdriver equipped with a flat head. After you remove the handle, you need to remove the middle screw which holds the cylinder. After you have removed the middle screw you will be able to loosen the two screws which secure the barrel. Then you can take the barrel out of the door. To accomplish this, you’ll require someone to prop the door wide.

After removing the cylinder you can replace it with a new cylinder. Make sure the new cylinder is the same size as your old one. In the event that it isn’t, you could end up with a handle that isn’t aligned properly. This could cause a number of problems, including leaks and drips.

Most door handles made of upvc feature slots for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten or loosen the handle. They are usually on the inside of the door, near where the handle is connected to the cylinder. The slots for adjustment can be tightened with an allen wrench. Once you’ve made the necessary adjustments, you can screw the handle back in and then put it back into position. You can then test the handle and make sure it functions as intended.

The door handle made of upvc that becomes floppy when closed is usually an indication that the gearbox or internal spring components have failed. This can cause the multipoint lock made of upvc to fail, leaving your door open to intrusion. In this situation the gearbox made of upvc will need to be replaced. This will cost between PS145-PS280, including labour.