UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a damaged or broken window handle is a easy process, and with the right tools it can be accomplished quite quickly. It's important to know the type of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before purchasing an alternative.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur that extends and is locked over the wedge striker for cockspur. These can be right-handed or left-handed and should be compatible when replaced.

What kind of lock or handle do I have

There are many kinds of upvc window handles and locks, each with their particular advantages and uses. The type of handle you own will determine whether or not your locking mechanism is effective and if it is easy to open windows. As time passes and with regular use, upvc window handle replacement handles can become damaged or worn out, making them less effective and secure. In some cases, they may even disappear completely. If you notice that your upvc window handles have been removed, it's important to fix them as soon as possible. This will prevent possible break-ins and ensure that your home is secure.

The good news is that replacing your upvc window handles is a fairly simple job that can be done by nearly everyone. You will need a few tools, but with the appropriate knowledge, it's an easy task that will only take a couple of minutes. To get started you'll need to identify the type of lock and handle you have on your window and then identify the best replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are usually found on the side of the window. They have a flat design and have a latch that connects to the locking mechanism of the frame of the window when it is turned. Inline upvc handles have spindles that run through the center of the handle and then into the frame of the window to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames and have a distinctive, hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the frame of the window with a single screw and are less secure than other types of window handle.

Handles that turn and tilt

Unlike the other handles made of upvc, tilt and turn handles can be rotated to open the window, and the handle can be tilted to the side to let air flow in. Generally, they have a 7mm spindle on the side of the handle. They are available in left and right handed versions.

When you are purchasing replacement handles for upvc, it is important to measure the spindle's length since not all of them are identical in size. To determine the length of your upvc handle simply drop something in the middle of the hole and measure the distance it travels before meeting an obstruction. This is the maximum spindle length that will fit in your window.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles work in a similar manner to doors. By turning the handle, you can activate a latch inside the frame. The window panes replacement is then opened and closed. However, sometimes handles can be damaged, particularly if they are regularly used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC handles on windows since they might not be able to operate the window properly in the future.

There are many types of uPVC handle options, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed in a variety ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle style uses an entirely different spindle for locking the window replacement glass mechanism. This is why it is important to identify the type of handle is installed on your uPVC window to get the correct replacement double glazed window.

You can find out what kind of uPVC handle you are using by looking at the base section of the handle. A snap-in cover is over the screw that holds the handle's base in position. Remove this and then you should be able see the second holding screw located at the opposite end of the base portion of the handle. Once both screws are removed you should be able to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

After taking off the uPVC handle, remove it from the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle as you'll need to ensure that you purchase an alternative that is the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.

The spindle wears out and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This could be due damage from constant use or a loosening of the locking mechanism, or even corrosion that occurs over time. If this happens, it will be necessary to replace the window handle as well as the locking mechanism to restore complete functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I take off my old handle?

Over time and through everyday use, window handles may become damaged or broken, and if this happens it is important to repair them as quickly as possible to ensure the security of your home. It is simple to replace a damaged or worn handle. The task can be accomplished in under a minute without the need of special tools.

To take off the handle, first remove the screw located at the base of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle will be removed. There is a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle's base, and this can be removed too. Once both of these screws are removed the handle can be removed completely from the base section of the window cost replacement.

After removing the old handle and align the fixing holes of the new handle to the holes that are already in the window frame. There may be a tiny sticker or caps on the new handle, so take off the caps if needed, and then put the handle in place. It is essential to ensure whether the handle functions after it is put in place. Turn the handle over and ensure that the lock mechanism is in place.

Espag handles have a spindle which protrudes out of the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism that is on the window frame. Cadenza windows have a blade with cutouts which fit into the lock mechanism. Cockspur handles are long and hang over the outer frame of the window or the transom bar crossmember.

Once you have the new handle in place, insert the spindle inside the lock in the window and then tighten it down. Once the handle is securely fixated then replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if necessary). The handle is now ready for use, so try opening and closing the window several times to check that it works correctly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

It's not difficult to change the handle on your uPVC windows. The process is very easy. All you need is a screwdriver, and a bit of patience. First, ensure that the old handle is unlocked. Then remove any screws visible. You can also replace them with screw caps. Once the handle is removed it is necessary to take an note of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial because it will determine the type of handle you need to buy.

Espagnolette handles are the most commonly used type of handle for uPVC windows. They have a spindle that runs through the handle and operates a locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle opens the latch and allows the window to open. During regular use and time, handles for espagnolette may become damaged.

Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is typically used in tilt and turn windows. They have an elongated blade that functions as an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within the window. They are more secure than espagnolette handles since they only open from the inside. You can replace them with the same procedure as you would do for handles made of espagnolette, but make sure the new handle is not angled and flat.

After you have chosen the correct handle, you can align the new handle to existing screw holes prior to fixing it with screws. Then, you should put the screw covers on and test the new handle. This is accomplished by moving the handle from locked to the unlocked position and vice versa several times. If you encounter any issues, it might be worthwhile contacting a professional to determine if they can assist you in solving the issue. They will often be able to guide you on the best approach to resolve the issue in a speedy and effective manner.