11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually Acceptable To Do With Your Upvc Door Handle Replacement
Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
Replacing the handles on your doors made of upvc is a relatively simple job but picking the right handle can be tricky. Most modern double glazed handles come with spring cassettes in them but older ones don't.
If the handle of your upvc is loose and floppy there may be a problem with the internal components of the multipoint lock. This article will cover a number of potential problems and their causes.
Sagging or drooping handles
uPVC handles can sustain wear and tear, especially in older properties. A broken spring cassette inside the door lever is the most typical cause of a floppy handle. This is usually caused by excessive force, and the square spindle which holds the cassette can become displaced or the cassette can be rounded off.
The good news is that replacing the door handle made of uPVC is an easy task and can be completed in just a few minutes. The first step is to remove the handle unit that was previously used. To remove it, loosen the fixing screws visible on the back of the lever. After the handles have been removed, you can take them off and replace the cassette.
On the internet, you can select from a wide selection of uPVC handles available in a variety of finishes. The finish you choose will determine the life span of your handle as well as how it will be easy to clean. Finishes such as PVD, Stainless Steel or Resista are made to withstand corrosion and will last for up to 25 years.
After you have chosen the colour or style you can then select the type of handle you need. The most popular are lever and pad arrangements. Lever pads are commonly used to prevent unauthorised access. They feature both a lever inside and a paddle out.
Then, you should measure and note the dimensions of the handle you currently have. You'll need to measure the PZ dimension which is the distance between the screw hole and the center of the lever. You will also need to be aware of how the handle's length is and the size of its keyhole. Once you know the measurements, you can then compare these to the handle sizes matrix to determine the right replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, handles made of uPVC may become wobbly or loose. The spring cassette could also break. These springs help align the handle lever in a horizontal position. Without them, your doors will not lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles are made with these cassettes directly built into the backplate. These springs are often integrated into older uPVC door mechanisms. It is not something you can fix by yourself, but it's definitely worthwhile to have your locksmith examine the situation as this could be the cause of the sagging uPVC handles.
The most common problem that is encountered with uPVC handles is that they loosen as time passes. This is usually due to worn-out springs, which are easy to repair. The majority of the time, this is caused by excessive use of the handle and because of that the square spindle in the handle will wear out, causing the springs to be displaced.
To fix this issue, you'll need to open the door towards the handle plate and unscrew all screws. This can be accomplished using the Philips screwdriver. Once the screws have been removed, the handle can be removed and the handle plates pulled apart with care. The old springs can be removed and replaced with new ones.
Depending on the type of handle you are using the distance between the two screws can differ, and this is important to know when buying the replacement. This measurement is called the PZ and it is essential to make use of a calibrated measuring tape in order to get an precise reading.
After reinstalling the springs, you should be able to use the handle without issue. It's worth lubricating the internal mechanism to ensure that everything is operating just as it should. This will ensure that your uPVC door is as secure as it is, and improve their comfort over time.
Handles that slide around
Handles that move around can be caused by a variety of things, one of the most common causes is when the handle levers aren't aligned properly with lock. This can happen with uPVC doors and composite doors. However, it is more evident on older doors since they are made of cheaper materials that don't stand up to the elements.
A professional can address this problem by realigning the handles to ensure they are aligned with the lock. They will also look at the lock itself to see if there is anything that requires fixing. In many cases, a minor adjustment to the handle springs can solve the issue.
It's simple to replace your uPVC handle however, you must take measurements of the handle you have to ensure that the new one is the correct size. You'll need to measure the distance between the two fixing screws, and the size of the lever as well as the key-hole position. Then, use this uPVC handles size guide to find the right replacement for your home.
After you have taken the measurements, you can remove the old uPVC handle. It's usually a straightforward process and only requires a screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you can then remove the handle and then proceed to install the new handle.
Before you begin the work, you should ensure that the door is held open with a door wedge to stop it from closing during the course of your work. After you have removed the handle, you can now access the underlying parts of the door to fix the issues that cause it to slide.
A handyman from Fantastic Services will be able to help if you don't want to do the job yourself or lack the nerves. They will use specialist locksmith opening methods to open the door without causing any damage, and then replace the handle that is damaged, making sure everything is in place and functioning exactly as it should.
Gearbox damaged

A damaged gearbox can cause the door handle made of upvc to become stiff or lose its functionality. This can also prevent the lock from being able be opened using keys. This is extremely dangerous and should be addressed promptly. It is important to call 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 flat heads. After you remove the handle, take out 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. Then you can pull the barrel out of the door. To do this, you will require someone to hold the door open.
After removing the cylinder, you can replace with a brand new cylinder. Make sure the new cylinder has the same size as your old one. In the event that it isn't, you could end with an unaligned handle correctly. This can cause a variety of problems, such as leaks and draughts.
Many upvc door handle s have slots that allow for adjustment. These slots can be used to tighten or loosen the handle. These are usually located on the inside of the door, near where the handle joins the cylinder. The slots for adjustment can be tightened by using an allen wrench. After you have made the adjustments, you can put the handle back into place & screw it in. After that, you can test the handle to be sure that it is working properly.
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 could cause your multipoint locks made of upvc to fail leaving your door open to intruders. In this situation, the upvc gearbox must be replaced. The cost will range from PS145 - PS280, including labour.