How to Fix a Loose uPVC Door Handle

Like every other attached item, door handles can also lose their grip. If you have an uPVC door, then the handle may turn floppy and wobbly due to continued usage. This is largely visible in the front and main door of the home. You cannot keep investing in a new door just because of loose handles.

Leaving a loose door handle is not a good idea since it might cause harm to the handle or the door. To keep your door handles in good working order, check and tighten screws regularly.

To fix your loose uPVC door handle, the best you can do is tighten the base plate screws with a crosshead screwdriver and leave it for five minutes. There could be many reasons why you have a floppy uPVC door handle. Some of these are –

• Due to a malfunctioning gearbox, typically a broken spring.

• The handle has come loose due to a broken spring cassette in the handle.

• Non-repairable wear has caused the uPVC door handle to loosen.

• Poorly installed uPVC door.

So how do you fix a loose uPVC door handle? Well, there are different ways, which we have discussed in this article below.

How to Fix a Loose uPVC Door Handle?

To get the loose uPVC door handle fixed, you will need to open the mechanism and fix it properly. Besides, you can follow the steps below.

Remove the Door Handle

The very first thing to do is to remove the door handle with screws using screwdriver. Place it nearby and then proceed to the next step.

Inspect the Door Handle

Before making any changes, study the uPVC door handle to determine the problem. Inspect for looseness, misalignment, or being worn out.

If the handle wobbles or sticks when turned, the screws or spindle may need to be adjusted or replaced.

Tighten the Screws

Now, fix the door handle by using a screwdriver. Ensure to tighten the screws on both sides of the handle. If they are stripped or broken, replace them with new screws of the proper size.

Overtightening may cause harm to the handle or the door's internal mechanism.

Check the Spindle Alignment

Every handle comes with a spindle; ensure you check its condition. Remove the handle to inspect the spindle, which is the metal rod that connects the two sides of the handle.

If it seems worn or crooked, adjust or replace it. Ensure that the spindle fits snugly into the handle apertures to restore smooth functioning.

Replace Faulty Spring Cassette

Check the spring cassette and check if it is damaged or needs a replacement. Here is how you can replace the faulty spring cassette-

• Remove the spring cassettes.

• Inspect the area where the door spindle enters. If you find the cassette is no longer square-shaped, then it's time to replace it.

• Insert the new spring cassettes into both escutcheon plates.

• Screw the plates back onto the door.

• However, the door lock cylinder may have been slightly shifted during the process, so you must reinstall it in the original location.

Change the uPVC Gearbox

If the spring cassette is working perfectly, then you need to change the uPVC gearbox. You will know this when you are unable to lock the door. Here are the steps to change the uPVC gearbox:

• Unscrew the plates.

• Unhook the handles and plates on both sides.

• Unhook the spindle and the locking cylinder.

• Unhook the screws by folding the door strip. If you see multiple screws with various heads, leave them. They are intended for their little gearboxes, not the main ones.

• Remove the door strip that carries all gears attached to it.

• Unscrew the centre gearbox from the strip.

• Replace it with the new one and follow the procedures in reverse order.

Lubricate the Mechanism

Apply a silicone lubricant to the handle's internal moving parts. This reduces friction, making the handle simpler to use and reducing future stiffness or wear.

Test the Handle

Reassemble the handle and check its movement. Turn it many times to guarantee smooth operation, and make sure the door locks and unlocks properly. If the problem persists, recheck the alignment or contact an expert.

Key Takeaways

To repair a loose uPVC door handle, you need to inspect it, tighten the screws, verify spindle alignment, lubricate the moving parts and test functionality.

Addressing the issue as soon as possible will avoid any floppy handles, improve security, and extend the life of the handle.

If you want to replace your internal doors along with the external doors to upgrade the overall look, Emerald Doors is the right platform to deal with. You will receive complete assistance from selecting to buying to installation.

FAQs: Fixing a Loose uPVC Door Handle

Since we have covered maximum information on managing floppy uPVC door handles and handling all types of uPVC door handles, let us answer a few questions people generally have.

1) Can I fix a loose uPVC door handle myself?

Ans) Yes, it is possible to fix a uPVC door handle by yourself. You can follow the above-mentioned steps. However, do carry all the tools required to follow steps.

2) How often should I check my uPVC door handle?

Ans: It is important to check the uPVC door handle every few months. Regular inspections will help you avoid losing screws or misalignment early on.

3) Why does my uPVC door handle keep getting loose?

Ans: A uPVC door handle usually loses its grip due to continuous use, spindle misalignment, or mechanical wear.

4) How do I know if I need to replace my uPVC door handle?

Ans: If your uPVC door handle remains loose despite being tightened, it's time to replace it. Also, a replacement handle may be the best option if the locking mechanism is also malfunctioning.