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

UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It's simple to repair a broken window handle with the proper tools. It is important to identify the kind of handle you have and the spindle's size before purchasing a replacement glass for windows.

Older uPVC windows feature cockspur handles for windows. They have spurs that protrude to lock over a cockspur wedge striker plate. These can be either left or right-handed and must be to be matched when replacing.

What kind of lock or handle do I have?

There are many windows locks and handles made of upvc each with their own advantages and purposes. The type of handle you own will determine whether or not your locking mechanism is efficient and also if it is simple to open windows. With time and regular use, upvc window handles can become damaged or worn out, making them less secure and effective. In some instances they could even be completely removed. If you notice that your upvc window handles have been removed, it's important to repair them as quickly as possible. This will help prevent burglaries, and keep your house safe.

It's a task that virtually anyone can perform. You'll require a few basic tools, but with the appropriate knowledge, it's simple and should only take a couple of minutes. You will need to know the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will help you select the appropriate replacement window glass.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are usually found on the side of the window. They are flat and have an open latch that is connected to the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles also have a spindle that runs through the middle of the handle and then into the frame of the window to activate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames. They have an unusual hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are fitted with a single screw that is used to secure the handle to the frame of the window and are not as secure as other types of window handles.

Tilt and Window Handle Replacement Turn Handles

The tilt and turn handles differ from other handles made of upvc in that they can be turned to open the window and then tilted to the window to let air circulate. They feature a 7mm spindle at the back and are available in left and right-handed versions.

When you are purchasing replacement handles for upvc it is essential to measure the spindle's length as not all are the same size. Drop something into the middle of the hole to check the length. This is the length of the spindle that will fit your window.

What is a spindle?

uPVC window handles work similarly as doors, with the user turning the handle to activate a latch inside the frame. The window then opens and shut. However, sometimes these handles can become damaged, particularly when they are used frequently or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This can lead to the need to replace your uPVC windows handles as they might not operate the window correctly in the future.

There are a variety of uPVC handles that are available, comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handles. These handles are made in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle type utilizes an individual spindle to lock the window mechanism. It is important to identify the kind of handle that is installed on your uPVC windows so that you can replace it with the right one.

The base of the handle will tell you what type of uPVC it is. There should be a "snap-in' cover over one screw which holds the handle base in place. Remove this and then you should be able see the second screw on the opposite side of the base of the handle. After both screws have been removed and you are able to pull the handle from the uPVC.

After taking off the uPVC handle, carefully unscrew it from the locking mechanism. Note the length of the spindle. You'll need buy a replacement of the same length as the original handle and locking device.

The spindle wears down and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This could be due to corrosion, damage from frequent use, or a loosening locking mechanism. If this happens, you'll need to replace both the window handle and locking mechanism in order to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.

How do I take off the handle from the previous one?

Window handles can be damaged or even broken over the course of time. It is essential to fix them as soon as possible to ensure your safety. Fortunately, replacing a worn or damaged handle is a relatively easy task that can be carried out in just over one minute and doesn't require any specialist tools.

To remove the handle, you first need to remove the screw located at the base of the handle. After the screw is removed, the handle will be removed. There will be a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle base, and it is able to be removed as well. After both screws are removed the handle can be completely detached from the base section of the window.

After the handle has been removed, grab the new handle and line up the fixing holes with the holes that are currently in the window frame. If there is a sticker or cap on the new handle, take it off it if needed and screw the handle into the appropriate position. It is crucial to verify that the handle works once it is put in place. Turn the handle and make sure the lock mechanism is in place.

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

After you have installed the new handle, insert the spindle inside the window lock and tighten it. When the handle is fixated, replace the'snap in' cover and the screw cap (if applicable). Once the handle is ready for use, open and close the window a few times to ensure it works properly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

It's not difficult to alter the handle on your uPVC windows. The procedure is easy. All you require is a screwdriver and small amount of patience. First, ensure that the handle that you are replacing is unlocked. Then, remove any visible screws. You can also replace them with screw caps. After the handle has been removed, you need to make 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 that are made of uPVC are the most sought-after kind of handle. The spindle runs through the handle to operate the locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle releases the latch and allows the window to open. When used regularly and time, handles made of espagnolette can be damaged.

Cadenza handles are a form of uPVC handle that is usually used with tilt and turn windows. They have a protruding knife that operates a multiple-point locking mechanism within the window. They are more secure than espagnolette handles since they only open from the inside. They can be replaced using the same method as you would with espagnolette handles however, ensure that the new handle is angled and not flat.

After you have picked the correct handle, you can align the new handle with the existing screw holes before screwing it in place. After that, you can put the screw covers on and test your new handle. This is accomplished by moving the handle from the locked position to the unlocked and the reverse direction several times. It might be worthwhile to speak with an expert to see how you can fix any issues. They can offer advice on how to resolve the issue in a timely and effective way.