Upvc Window Handle Replacement: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

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 and its spindle size before purchasing the replacement.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur which protrudes and locks on a wedge striker for cockspur. These can be either left or right-handed and must be to be replaced with the same handle.

What type of lock and handle do I have?

There are a myriad of window locks and handles made from upvc, each with its particular advantages and uses. The type of handle that you choose will determine whether or not your locking mechanism is efficient and also if it is simple to open the windows. As time passes and with regular use, window handles made of upvc can become damaged or worn out, upvc window handle replacement making them less secure and efficient. In some instances, they could even fall off completely. It is important to repair your upvc window handles when you see them falling off. This will help to avoid burglaries and keep your home safe.

It's a simple job that virtually anyone can perform. You'll require some basic tools, but with the proper knowledge, it's a straightforward process that should only take a couple of minutes. To get started you must determine the kind of lock and handle that you have on your window made of upvc to help you find the perfect replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most common type of upvc handle and are usually placed on the outside of your window. They are flat and feature an opening that engages the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles have a spindle running through the middle of the handle to the window frame in order to control the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and feature an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have one screw that secures the handle to the frame of the window and aren't as secure as other types of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

The tilt and turn handles differ from other upvc handles because they can be turned to open the window and then lowered into the window to ventilate. They typically have a 7mm spindle on the side of the handle. They are available in left and right-handed versions.

It is important to measure the size of the spindle when purchasing a replacement windows near me upvc handle. Not all of them are exactly the same size. Drop something in the middle of the hole to measure the length. This is the length of the spindle that will fit your window.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles operate in a similar way to doors. By turning the handle, you are able to activate a latch inside the frame. The window then opens and shut. These handles can be damaged, especially if frequently used or exposed to harsh conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC windows handles as they may not operate the window correctly anymore.

There are several different types of uPVC handles to choose from, including Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handles. They are designed to fit inside the uPVC frames in different ways, and each type of handle utilizes a specific spindle to secure the mechanism to the window. This is why it is important to know the type of handle is installed on your uPVC window so you can find the right replacement.

You can find out what kind of uPVC handle you have by looking at the base section of the handle. A snap-in cover is over the screw that holds the base of the handle in position. Take it off and you should be able to 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 capable of pulling the handle away from the uPVC window.

After you have removed the uPVC window handle, you have to remove the spindle that was previously attached to the locking mechanism. Take careful note of the length of the spindle, as you will need to ensure that you purchase a replacement that has the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.

The main issue with most window handle problems with uPVC is that the spindle becomes worn out and cannot longer operate the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage caused by constant use or an unreliable locking mechanism. If this happens, it will be necessary to replace the window handle and the locking mechanism to restore the full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I take off my old handle?

In the course of time and daily use, window handles may become damaged or broken, and when this happens, it is crucial to repair them as quickly as possible to ensure the security of your home. It is easy to replace a damaged or worn handle. The job can be completed in less than an hour without the need of special tools.

To remove the old handle, you first need to remove the screw located at the base of the handle. After this screw is removed, the handle can then be pulled away from the base section. There will be a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle base, and it can be removed too. Once these two screws have been removed, the handle can be removed from the window's base.

After the handle has been removed, grab the new handle and align the fixing holes with the holes present in the window frame. There might be a small cap or sticker on the new handle, so take them off the caps if needed, and then screw the handle in the frame. Once the handle is set, it is essential to check that it is working by turning the handle, and ensuring that the lock mechanism is activated.

Espag handles have spindles that protrude out of the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism on the frame of the window. Cadenza windows come with a blade with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism, while Cockspur handles have an extended nose that hangs over either the outer frame or transom bar cross member in the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, slide the spindle inside the lock in the window and then tighten it down. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if appropriate) once the handle is fixed. The handle is now ready to use, so try opening and UPVC Window Handle Replacement closing the window several times to check that it functions properly and securely.

How do I put in the new handle?

Switching your uPVC window handle isn't a big deal and the process is quite simple. You only need a screwdriver, and a bit of patience. The first step is ensure that the handle you have previously used is locked and then remove any screws that are visible. you can also replace these with screw caps if needed. After the handle has been removed it is necessary to take a note of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is vital as it will determine what kind of handle to purchase.

Espagnolette handles are the most common type of handle for uPVC windows. They feature a spindle that is inserted into the handle, and is responsible for a locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. The handle opens the latch and allows the window to open. As time passes and with regular use, espagnolette handles can be damaged or destroyed and it is necessary to locate replacements.

Cadenza handles are a second type of uPVC window handle commonly used on tilt and turn windows. They have a protruding knife that operates a multiple-point locking mechanism inside the window. They are generally more secure than espagnolette handles as they are only accessible from the inside. You can replace them with the same method as you would with espagnolette handles, but make sure the new handle is angled, not flat.

Once you have selected the correct handle, you can align the new handle with existing screw holes before fixing it with screws. After that, you can put the screws on and test the new handle. You can perform this by moving the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked one several times. It is possible to contact an expert to determine whether you can solve any issues. They are often able to advise you on the best solution to resolve the issue in a fast and effective way.