11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually OK To Make With Your Upvc Door Handle Replacement
Choosing the Right UPVC Door Handle Replacement
It's simple to replace your upvc handles however choosing the best handle can be a challenge. Most modern double glazed handles come with spring cassettes in them but older ones don't.
If your upvc handle is loose and floppy, there could be a problem with the internal parts of the multipoint lock. This article will look at a number of possible issues and their causes.
Handles that are drooping or sagging
UPVC handles can withstand wear and tear, especially in older properties. A broken spring cassette in the door lever is the most typical cause of a floppy handle. This is due to excessive force and the spindle that holds the cassette may be dislocated or turned round.
The good news is that a uPVC door handle replacement is a relatively simple job and can be completed in just a few minutes. The first step is removing the old handle unit. To do this, unscrew the fixing screws on the backside of the handle lever. Once the handles are removed, you can unscrew and replace the cassette.
There is a wide variety of uPVC
door handles to choose from online, and many of them come in different finishes. Choosing the right finish will determine how long the handle will last and how it is easy to keep clean. Finishes like Resista Stainless Steel, or PVD are designed to resist corrosion and last for up to 25 years.
After selecting a colour or style, you are able to choose the type of handle you require. The most popular types are lever and pad arrangements. Lever pads are often used to block access by unauthorised persons. They are equipped with a lever inside and a paddle outside.
Then, you should measure and record the dimensions of the handle you currently have. You'll need the PZ dimension (the distance from the screw hole to the center of the lever) and the length of the handle as well as the size of the keyhole. Once you know the measurements, you can then compare them to the handle size matrix to determine the appropriate replacement.
Broken springs
Over time, uPVC door handles are prone to becoming wobbly or loose and at times the spring cassette inside may break. These springs are used to align the handle lever in a horizontal direction. Without them your doors will not lock properly.
Modern uPVC handles have these cassettes built into the back plate. However, older uPVC doors typically contain these springs within the lock mechanism. This isn't something you can be fixed by yourself but it's worth asking your locksmith to take a look at as this could be the cause of the drooping or sagging uPVC door handles.
The most frequent issue associated with uPVC handles is that they tend to loosen over time. This is usually due to worn-out springs, which are simple to fix. The reason for this is usually excessive handling of the handle. The square spindle inside the handle will wear out, which causes the springs to move.
In order to rectify this you will need to open the door and remove the fixing screws on the back of the handle plate. This can be done using a Philips screwdriver. After the screws have been removed the handle can be taken off. The plates for the handle can then be pulled apart. You can then remove the springs that were in use and replace them with new springs.
Depending on the kind of handle you have the distance between the two fixing screws can vary and this is important to know when buying a replacement. This measurement is called the PZ and it is essential to make use of a calibrated measuring tape in order to get an accurate reading.
After reinstalling the springs, you will be able to operate the handle with no issues. However, it's always important to grease the mechanism inside to ensure that everything functions 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 operate for a long 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 levers of the handle aren't aligned properly with the lock. This can happen on both uPVC doors as well as composite doors. However, it is more evident on older doors as they are made of cheaper materials that don't stand up to the elements.
A professional can fix this issue by rearranging the handles so that they are aligned with the lock. They'll also examine the lock itself to determine if there is anything that needs fixing. In many cases, a minor adjustment to the handle springs will solve this problem.
It's simple to replace your uPVC handle however, you must measure the existing handle to ensure that the replacement is of the right size. You will need to measure the distance of two screws, the size 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.
Once you have the measurements The next step is to remove the current uPVC handles. It's usually a straightforward procedure and requires only an screwdriver. Once the screws have been removed, you will need to take off the handle, and then replace the new one.
Before starting, it's worth ensuring that the door is secured open using a wedge to prevent it from closing during the course of your work. After you remove the handle, you can inspect the components underneath the door that cause the door to slide.
A handyman from Fantastic Services will be able assist if you don't want to do the job yourself or don't have the skills. They will use specialist locks to unlock the doors without damaging the door. Then they will replace the broken handle and make sure everything is working just as it should.
Gearbox damaged
A damaged gearbox can cause the handle made of upvc to become stiff and lose its functionality. The lock may also not be able to opened with the use of a key. This can be dangerous and should be addressed as soon as is possible. If you are unable solve the issue on your own it is essential to call a locksmith since they have the expertise and tools necessary to complete the task right.
The first step is to take the handle from its cover plate. You can do this using the help of a screwdriver with an angled tip. After you have removed the handle, you are able to remove the middle screw that holds the barrel in position. Once you have removed this middle screw, you can then loosen the two screws that secure the barrel. You can then pull the barrel out of the door. You will need to open the door to accomplish this, so be sure you have someone on hand to assist.

After you have removed the cylinder and replacing it with a brand new cylinder. It is important to ensure that the new cylinder is the same size as the old one. Otherwise, you could end up with an unaligned handle properly. This can lead to numerous issues that could cause leaks and drafts.
Many upvc doors have adjustment slots which can be used to adjust the handle's tension or release. These slots are usually located on the inside of the doors, close to the point where the handle joins the cylinder. Allen wrenches can be used to tighten the slots of adjustment. After you've made the required adjustments then you can screw the handle back in and then put it back into place. Then, you can test the handle and make sure it works correctly.
If the upvc door handle becomes floppy or loose when it is closed, it's usually a sign that the upvc gearbox has been damaged or the internal spring components are in the process of breaking down. This could cause the multipoint lock made of upvc to fail and leave your door open to intrusion. If this happens, it will be necessary to replace the upvc gearbox. This will cost between PS145-PS280 with the labor included.