Changing Conservatory Door Handles
Most people can easily alter the handles of their conservatory door. It is important to first determine whether your existing handles include springs or not.
We stock a large range of replacement handles to suit all major uPVC double glazing manufacturers, including Hoppe, Mila, Avocet and Fab 'n' Fix. It is important to measure two key dimensions to select the correct handle. These are the distance between the screw fixing centres and the centre of the keyhole (also known as PZ centres).
Lever/lever
If you're planning to install new uPVC doors to your conservatory, you might want to think about changing the style of your handles. The design of your handles can make a big difference in the appearance of the room, and also the level of security you need. The good news is that replacing a door handle is a relatively easy task that most people can handle themselves in just five minutes.
Before you begin this process, it's important to ensure that the door is closed and secured so that you can work in a safe manner. Then, you'll need to remove the handle and the cylinder lock. After the handle and cylinder lock are removed, you'll need mark the screw holes on your back plate. This will allow you to determine the exact position to screw your replacement handle into the correct position. Once you have the handle marked, you can make use of these measurements to purchase the suitable handle for your uPVC door.
The levers, screws and pad spindles go through the lock case which is within the door. Therefore, you cannot just swap one handle for another without making sure that they are matched up correctly. This is why it's essential to make precise measurements prior to purchasing a new set of handles.
Also, you'll need to determine the Top Screw to Spindle Distance and PZ Dimension (centre of euro hole for cylinders). The next step is to locate the ideal uPVC door handles for your home. To help with this we've put together a handy door handle measurement guide that will show you exactly what to look out for when measuring your uPVC door.
Lever handles are the most popular type of door handle. They come in many different styles and finishes. For instance, you could find brushed nickel, graphite and oil-rubbed bronze as well as matte black handles to match your interior. These handles can be used for both commercial and domestic applications. They are available on a variety uPVC doors in various sizes and styles.
If you want to make your uPVC door more secure, select a handle with an locking mechanism. This adds an extra layer of security to your home, and is especially useful for external doors. There are numerous locking options available for these kinds of handles that include keyed alike as well as fake door locks.
Some lever handle sets can be used on the left or right side of the door. But, some aren't and must be ordered specifically to match the orientation of your door. We suggest that you verify that any lever set you purchase is handed prior to ordering, because some brands like Schlage only offer levers that can be reversed for doors of standard size.
Un-sprung
As the name implies that these kinds of door handles made of upvc do not incorporate a spring cassette within their back plate. They depend on the force applied to them by the latch/multi-point lock to return their lever to their horizontal position following use. This can become less effective over time, which causes the handles to drop.
If you're having problems with the handle, the spring in the cassette is probably worn out and must be replaced. The best way to check is by removing the handle and turning the lever. If the handles begin to droop it is a sign that their spring strength has decreased. It is important to install strong-duty locks and latches in your new conservatory doors to avoid this occurring.
The majority of replacement handles are sprung multipoint type with the spring cassette placed in the back plate and holding the lever. They work with a standard tubular or multipoint latch to ensure that door handles will return to horizontal after use. This is an essential feature as it is more difficult to operate the handles with no springs if they are not returning to their optimal position.
There are some upvc handles that do not have the spring cassette. These handles will need be fitted with heavy duty locks/latches. They are more prevalent on older doors made of upvc in which the handles haven't been replaced for a number of years.
Once you have the proper handle type picked and it is the right length to suit your upvc doors, it is simply an issue of fitting it as per the instructions given. The screw holes should be aligned on the external handle with the holes that are already in the euro profile cylinder. Then, insert www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk supplied and tighten the screws. Repeat the process for the handle inside.
It is important to note that the cylinders in these handles do not match those used in modern multi-point locks. The cylinders supplied with these handle sets are smaller in diameter and will require the larger bulb-shaped cylinders that are normally used on older multipoint doors. These cylinders are available from your local locksmith or online. It is an extra cost in comparison to the new upvc handle set and is only necessary in the event that you have older multi-point locks installed on your double glazed doors. These cylinders are included with the majority of the upvc handle sets available since they are the most popular size. However, it's recommended to have spare cylinders available in case of loss or breakage. This will save you the time and expense of having to order an entire replacement set of handles in the future. This also allows you to use the same cylinder for repairs to your existing Upvc handles in the event that the spring in the handle cassette wears out. This can occur when the door handle is used with excessive force, especially by elderly or children.