There are a wide range of reasons why uPVC door handles stop working properly, and it can be frustrating and expensive to think that the whole door needs replacing as a result. This isn’t always the case, as there a number of solutions and methods to help even the most amateur DIY enthusiast repair or replace a faulty handle.
Extensive use, as well as time, can contribute to the problems door handles can have, and they can become difficult to turn and unlatch. As well as this, there can be problems with the lock in uPVC doors, and the deadbolt can become stuck, making it difficult to open the door.
Such problems can be caused by a range of things, including the following:
- Screws that are too tight can result in the handle’s backplate pinching the lock, thereby preventing the spring from working effectively
- The handle’s internal springs may bind against the inside of the handle backplate if they’re not properly lubricated
- Sometimes, the handle is prevented from operating properly if there is insufficient clearance behind the handle’s backplate, stopping it from turning freely
- The spring mechanism can fail within the lock or lever handle
There are a number of ways to resolve such problems, including removing and cleaning the door handle itself, but this isn’t always necessary. Instead, why not try some of the following tips to get your door handle working again:
- Try slightly loosening the screws that hold the handle to the door itself. This should make the handle easier to turn.
- Remove the handle from the door and operate it while holding the backplate. If the handle does not operate freely, try adding a little grease to it and allowing it to work into the mechanism. This should stop the mechanism from binding, and the handle can be fitted to the door again.
- If the door isn’t latching shut properly, it’s likely that the spring mechanism within the lock has failed. To test if this is the case, remove the latch from the door and try pressing it with your finger; if it doesn’t spring back fully or is very slow when doing so, you’ll need to replace it.
There are number of tips available when it comes to repairing or replacing door handles, and should you find that you need to replace specific parts – or the handle itself – on internal doors or uPVC doors, Doorfit have a huge range of door fittings, locks and mechanisms from all the major manufacturers, including Avocat and ERA, among others.
The team will be happy to provide you with the advice you need when it comes to repairing or replacing your door handle, and will be delighted to show you the most suitable products for your particular needs.
Based in Hockley, Birmingham, they can supply their products to clients throughout the UK, so no matter where in the country you are or what products you need, give Doorfit a call for expert advice and high quality products.