uPVC & COMPOSITE DOORS
Door Handle Has Gone Stiff
A stiff lever handle on a uPVC or composite door is often an early warning that something is under strain. It can be caused by door alignment, the multipoint mechanism, handles or another component. Continuing to force it can turn an adjustment issue into a more expensive failure.
What can be done?
Check and correct alignment
If the handle is noticeably easier to operate with the door open, we check how the hooks, rollers and bolts line up with their keeps when the door closes.
Inspect the mechanism
If stiffness remains with the door open, the multipoint mechanism or gearbox may be worn or failing.
Check handles and cylinder
Loose, damaged or binding hardware can also affect operation and should be assessed before replacing the full mechanism.
Do not keep forcing it
Excessive force can damage the mechanism, handles or key and may eventually leave the door jammed shut.
What to send
Send your postcode, a photo of the full door, the handles and the metal faceplate running along the door edge. Tell us whether the stiffness happens with the door open, closed or both.
What happens during diagnosis?
We compare how the handle operates with the door open and closed, check whether the locking points meet the frame correctly and look for signs of wear in the mechanism and handles. If adjustment solves the problem, there is no reason to replace a working mechanism. If a component has failed, we explain which part is affected and the available repair options.
Can a stiff handle suddenly fail?
It can become progressively worse and may eventually stop operating normally, particularly if the mechanism is continually forced. Getting the fault checked while the door still operates usually gives us more options than waiting until it is jammed shut.
Stiff Door Handle?
Get it checked before the mechanism fails completely.