Replace Lock on Your UPVC Door Yourself
You can change the lock on your upvc door yourself, as long as you have full access to both sides of the handle's faceplate. You'll also need a screwdriver, a long bolt, and an entry key.
Sometimes, a uPVC system can become stuck due to the lack of lubrication, or if something is broken inside. If you know what to do, it's simple to fix.
Preparing for repairs
uPVC doors are susceptible to a variety of problems and some are more severe than others. You may be able fix the problem yourself when your uPVC lock becomes stuck or misaligned. It is important to be careful not to damage the mechanism of the lock which could cause the problem worse. It is also recommended that you try to avoid using lubricants like grease or oil as they can actually cause the locking mechanism to become sticky. Read Even more should instead use a graphite or light machine oil as they are safer and won't harm uPVC.
It isn't easy to take off a uPVC door barrel once it is put in. You should therefore take your time prior to beginning. If you're not familiar with this kind of repair, seek out the assistance of locksmiths to ensure the task is completed correctly. This will help you save time, as they can complete the task quickly and efficiently.
The first step is to take out the screw that holds the lock barrel in the position. This should be a different color to the rest of the screws on the door. It is located in the edging on the inside near the faceplate of the lock. After this is removed, you can then slide the barrel lock out. Once the lock is out you can then take off the handle and replace it with an alternative.
It is important to note that a locked uPVC door can still be closed and opened without the handle. The uPVC comes with a built-in security system known as multipoint locking. This system comprises of two hooks at the bottom and top of the door, along with a latch or dead bolt in the middle. This makes for a robust and secure door.
If your uPVC door is locked and you are unable to open it the most likely issue is with the locking cylinder. The uPVC lock cylinder is equipped with a specific key, which makes it as easily broken or displaced as other locks. If you're not a pro at this type of repair, it's recommended to get an expert locksmith.
Take the Cylinder off
The cylinder, also known as the barrel, is a small part of the handle of a uPVC door that allows you to lock and unlock the door. Pin-based technology is employed and has been used for many years. However it is now being targeted by criminals it to increase the chances of breaking in. You can enhance the security of your home by replacing the cylinder.
To remove the handle first, loosen the screws holding it in place with a Philips-head driver. Save the screws so that you are capable of reattaching the handle after the job is done. Then, locate the pinhole in the interior trim and handle that keeps the handle in place. Find a straightened paper clip or another pin to insert into the hole. As you rotate the handle apply pressure on the pin to loosen it. Once it's released, pull the handle towards you to retract the latch inside the cylinder.
Once you have loosened the old cylinder, it is possible to remove it manually. Be careful not to cause damage to the threads on either side of the cylinder, or the cam in the middle. If the cylinder does not move out easily the handle furniture or locking mechanism might be causing it to pinch. It will have to be loosen so that it is able to slide out.
When you're ready for a replacement of your cylinder, select one that has been evaluated by an independent testing agency to meet minimum standards for antisnap protection and anti-bump. There are several different grades of locks available on the market, so it is important to know your requirements before you begin to choose a replacement.
If possible, take the cylinder you have used to the store so that you can ensure that you're buying a suitable replacement. There are about 25 different sizes of lock cylinders to choose from and it is therefore essential to measure yours accurately.
Reinstalling the Cylinder
If your locks aren't functioning well, you might have to replace them. You might need to replace your locks for several reasons, such as to increase security or satisfy insurance requirements. You might need to change the lock if you've lost your keys, or you recently moved house. It doesn't matter what the reason is, changing your uPVC lock is not a difficult job and can be accomplished by anyone with a little direction.
First, make sure that the door is opened or secured securely so that it doesn't close during the process. Remove the screws that hold the handle with the screwdriver. Be cautious not to remove the screws too quickly, as this could cause small pieces to fly off and become lost. After the screws have been removed, slide them out of the interior and exterior handles simultaneously. It can be tricky however, you should not push anything. Doing so can break the handles, and it could also damage the handle mechanism.
After the handles have been removed Once the handles are removed, find the screw for fixing the cylinder on the edge of the door. This is usually an enormous screw that is located close to the lower end of the cylinder. It should be a different colour from the other screws and be easy to recognize. Twist the screw to loosen it, then take it off. it.
After removing the screw you should be able to observe the cylinder inside its socket. Insert your key and rotate it to both the left and right positions. This will help unlock the cylinder. Once you have it unlocked, you can use moderate pulling to remove the cylinder from its socket.
After you've removed the old cylinder, place the new one into its socket. It should slide into the socket easily If you're not getting it try wriggling and pulling again. If you're unable to get the cylinder in, consider replacing the lock entirely.
If you are replacing a euro cylinder make sure you purchase one that has anti-snap or anti-bump security. These features will enhance the security of your home and make it much harder for criminals to break into the lock.
Reinstalling the Handle
There are several reasons your uPVC door handle might not be working in the way it should. Sometimes it's a simple case of wear and tear, but other times the issue is more severe. It could be that the lock is defective and cannot be repaired. In this situation it's recommended to replace it.
The first thing to do is to remove the handle that was previously attached to the door. It's not difficult to do. You can usually take out the two screws using the help of a screwdriver. After the screws are removed the handle should no longer be connected to the door. It should easily fall off with a minimum effort.
It's a good idea clean the spindle and the back plate following the removal of the handle. This will ensure that there is no dirt or grime there to cause problems with the new handle. It's also a good idea to give the handle a clean with a damp cloth to ensure that it's free from dust and dirt because this could affect the performance of the handle.
Before you install the new handle take an inspection of how it will fit on the door, in the majority of cases, the hook plate and roller face plate fit into an opening in the middle lock case, so that there is no gap between them. If the handles do not fit correctly, they can cause pressure on the central lock case, which can cause it to break.
When you reinstall the handle start by sliding the new spindle into the hole on the outside handle and then into the one on the inside handle. You may have to tap the spindle using a mallet or hammer to make it slide into. Once it is in position, there is a small retaining bolt on the other end that you'll have to tighten. Line up the holes, and replace the retaining bolt.