Changing Conservatory Door Handles
Changing your handles for your conservatory doors is a straightforward job that the majority of people will be at ease doing. To begin, it is crucial to determine if your existing handles are sprung or not.
We stock a variety of replacement handles for all major uPVC double glazing manufacturers including Hoppe, Mila, Avocet and Fab 'n' Fix. You need to take two crucial measurements before you choose the best handle. These are the distance between the screw fixing centres and the center of the keyhole (also known as PZ centres).
Lever/lever
When you're installing new uPVC doors to your conservatory, you might want to consider changing the handle design. Not only will the finish of the handles add to the appearance of your home, but also the level of security you need. It is fairly simple to change a door handle. The majority of people can do it themselves in about five minutes.
Before you begin this process, it is essential to ensure that the door is closed and secure so you can work safely. Next, you will need to remove the handle and the cylinder lock. Once removed you will be required to carefully mark the location of the screw holes on the back plate. This will allow you to determine the precise location to screw the replacement handle into the hole. Once you've marked the measurements, you can use them to order the right handle.
The screws, lever and pad spindles are located inside the lock case (which is located inside the door) therefore it is impossible to switch any handle without ensuring that they line with each other. It is crucial to take accurate measurements when buying new handles.
You'll need to calculate the PZ dimension (centre of the euro cylinder hole) and the Top Screw to Spindle distance. You'll then need to find the perfect uPVC door handles for your property. To help with this we've created a helpful door handle measurement guide that will help you identify what to look out for when assessing your uPVC door.
Lever/lever handles are the most popular type of door handle. Repair My Windows And Doors are available in different styles and finishes. You can pick from graphite, matte black and oil-rubbed bronze handles to fit your interior. These handles are suitable for both domestic and commercial applications and can be found on a variety of uPVC door styles and sizes.
If you want your uPVC doors to be more secure then you'll have to select an option with a locking mechanism. This will add an extra layer of security to your home and is particularly suitable for exterior doors. There are many locking options available for these kinds of handles that include keyed alike as well as dummy door locks.
Certain lever handle sets can be used on the right or left side of the door. Some lever handle sets are convertible, but some aren't. You'll have to purchase them specifically for the orientation of your door. Before you purchase, we suggest that you check the direction of any lever set. Certain brands, like Schlage provide only reversible handles for standard doors.
Un-sprung
These upvc door handles are not spring-loaded. The latches/multi-point locks use a force that returns their lever to a horizontal position after use. This is less efficient over time, causing the handles to drop.
If there is an issue with the handle, it's likely the spring in the internal cassette has worn away and needs replacing. You can test this by removing the handle, and then pressing the lever. If the handles are drooping, it means that they have lost their spring force and it is essential to install heavy-duty latches and locks along with the replacement doors for conservatories to prevent this occurrence.
The majority of replacement handles have spring cassettes in the backplate and retain the lever. These handles work with a standard tubular or multipoint latch to ensure that door handles return horizontally after use. This is an important feature, as it can be difficult to operate handles that aren't in the correct position if they don't return to their initial position.
There are some upvc handles that do not have the spring cassette. These handles will need be fitted with heavy duty locks or latches. They are more prevalent in older door handles made of upvc that haven't been upgraded in many years.
Installing the handle is simple after you have picked the correct type and the appropriate length for your upvc door. Follow the instructions provided. Carefully align the screw holes of the external handle to the holes in your euro profile cylinder then insert the spindle and screws provided and tighten them up. Repeat the process for the handle inside.
One thing to be aware of is that the cylinders included with these handle sets are not typical cylinders that are used on modern multi-point locks. The cylinders included in these handle sets are smaller in diameter and will require the larger bulb-shaped cylinders that are commonly used on older multipoint doors. The cylinders are available from your local locksmith or bought on the internet. They are an additional cost to that of the new upvc handle set and is only needed in the event that you have older multi-point locks installed on your double glazed doors. The majority of the upvc handles on the market come with cylinders as they are the most sought-after size for use. However, it is always an excellent idea to have spare cylinders on hand in the event of loss or breakage. You'll save time as well as money by not having to purchase a new handle set. This will also allow you to utilize the same cylinder for a repair to your current Upvc handles if the spring in the handle cassette breaks or wears out. This can occur when the door handle is used with too much force, particularly by older or children.