When it comes to enhancing the security, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of your property, UPVC door handles play a pivotal role. These handles, designed specifically for UPVC doors, offer both style and durability, ensuring smooth operation and longevity. Whether you’re renovating your home, building a new property, or simply replacing worn-out handles, UPVC door handles provide a wide range of options to meet your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about UPVC door handles, from their types and benefits to installation and maintenance tips.
What Are UPVC Door Handles?
UPVC door handles are specifically designed hardware for doors made of plasticized polyvinyl chloride (UPVC) material. Doors are known for their energy efficiency, durability, and resistance to weathering, making them an ideal choice for homes and commercial buildings. Doors handles are built to complement these doors, offering a secure, functional, and visually appealing option for enhancing entryways.
Unlike traditional door handles made from wood or metal, UPVC door handles are often engineered with the durability to withstand the elements without rusting, fading, or corroding. These handles come in various designs, finishes, and sizes to suit different types of UPVC doors, including those for French doors, sliding doors, and patio doors.
Types of UPVC Door Handles
When selecting a UPVC door handle, it’s important to consider the type that best suits your door style and security needs. Below are the most common types of UPVC door handles:
1. Lever UPVC Door Handles
Lever handles are the most common type of UPVC door handles. These handles feature two levers on either side of the door, allowing for easy opening and closing. They are often paired with multipoint locking systems for enhanced security, making them an excellent choice for both residential and commercial doors.
2. Lever/Pad UPVC Door Handles
Similar to the lever/lever style, lever/pad handles feature a lever on one side and a thumb turn or pad on the other side. These are often used on external doors and provide extra security, especially when paired with a high-quality locking mechanism. The pad provides a more secure grip and is typically easier to operate, making them ideal for homes and offices.
3. Escutcheon Handles
Escutcheon handles have a small protective plate or cover around the keyhole, offering an additional layer of security. These handles are commonly found on front doors and external doors, as the escutcheon plate helps prevent the lock from being tampered with.
4. Multi-Point Locking Handles
Multi-point locking handles are designed for high-security doors, where the handle operates a locking system that engages multiple bolts in different areas of the door frame. This makes them ideal for homes in need of added protection against break-ins. These handles are commonly found on French doors, patio doors, and bifold doors.
Key Benefits of UPVC Door Handles
1. Durability
One of the most significant advantages of UPVC door handles is their exceptional durability. UPVC is resistant to weathering, rust, and corrosion, meaning the handles will maintain their performance and appearance for many years without the need for constant repairs or replacements.
2. Low Maintenance
UPVC door handles require minimal maintenance compared to other materials such as wood or metal. Unlike wooden handles that need to be refinished or metal handles that can rust, UPVC handles simply need occasional cleaning to keep them looking new.
3. Improved Security
Most UPVC door handles are equipped with multi-point locking systems or escutcheons, making them more secure than traditional door handles. The robust locking mechanisms ensure that the door is firmly secured, reducing the risk of forced entry.
4. Aesthetic Appeal
UPVC door handles come in a wide variety of designs, colors, and finishes, allowing homeowners to choose a handle that complements the overall look of their door and home. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern finish or a traditional style, there is a UPVC handle to match your taste.
5. Energy Efficiency
UPVC doors themselves are known for their energy efficiency, and the handles are no different. The sealed design of UPVC door handles helps to keep drafts out and prevent heat loss, contributing to better insulation for your home and lower energy bills.
How to Choose the Right UPVC Door Handle
Choosing the right UPVC door handle depends on several factors, such as the type of door, the level of security required, and the desired aesthetic. Here are some key considerations:
1. Security Features
If security is your primary concern, choose handles with multi-point locking systems or escutcheon plates. These handles are ideal for external doors and provide added protection against intruders.
2. Handle Design
The design of the handle should complement the style of your door. For modern homes, sleek, minimalist handles in finishes such as chrome or stainless steel work well. For traditional homes, a more classic design, such as bronze or brass finishes, may be preferred.
3. Size and Fit
Ensure the handle you choose is compatible with your door. Handles come in different sizes, and it’s important to measure your door correctly to ensure the handle fits properly. You may also want to check if the handle is designed for right- or left-handed use, depending on the direction your door swings.
4. Ease of Use
Choose handles that are easy to operate, especially for elderly individuals or those with mobility issues. Handles with smooth operation and ergonomic designs provide comfort and ease of use.
Installation and Maintenance of UPVC Door Handles
Installation Process
Installing a door handle is a relatively simple process that can usually be done in a few steps:
- Remove the old handle: unscrew and remove the existing handle, ensuring the lock is disengaged.
- Position the New Handle: Align the new handle with the pre-drilled holes on the door and secure it in place.
- Test the handle: Check that the handle works smoothly and engages the locking mechanism as intended.
- If you’re unsure about the installation, it’s always a good idea to hire a professional locksmith or door technician to ensure everything is set up correctly.
Maintaining UPVC Door Handles
Maintaining door handles is easy and requires just a few simple steps:
- Clean Regularly: Use a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution to wipe down the handle. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a small amount of silicone spray to the moving parts of the handle to keep it working smoothly.
- Check for Wear: Regularly check the handle for any signs of wear or damage. If the handle becomes loose or difficult to operate, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
Conclusion
UPVC door handles offer reliability, security, and aesthetic appeal for homeowners and business owners alike. Their durability, low maintenance, and wide range of designs make them an excellent choice for any property. When choosing a handle, consider the security features, style, and size to ensure it meets your needs. Whether you’re installing a new handle or replacing an old one, UPVC handles are sure to provide long-lasting performance and enhance the overall look of your doors.
Author: shoreline Insurance
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