UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It's easy to repair a broken window handle with the proper tools. It is essential to know what kind of handle you have and the spindle's size before you purchase an alternative.

Older uPVC windows have handles with cockspurs, which have a spur that protrudes to lock over a cockspur wedge striker plate. These can be either right or left-handed and have to match when replacing.

What kind of lock and handle do I have?

There are a myriad of windows locks and handles made of upvc each with its own advantages and purposes. The type of handle you have will determine how easy it is to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism functions according to the plan. With time and regular use, upvc window handles may become damaged or worn out, making them less secure and efficient. In some instances they could even be completely removed. It is crucial to fix the handles on your window made of upvc as soon as you see they are falling off. This will help to avoid burglaries and protect your home from burglary.

It's a simple job that virtually anyone can perform. You'll need a few basic tools, but with proper knowledge, it's an easy task that will only take a few minutes. You will need to know the type of handle or lock that you have on your window. This will help you choose the correct replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are the most popular type of upvc handles and are typically located on the outside of your window. They have a flat design and feature a latch that connects to the locking mechanism of the frame of the window when it is turned. Inline upvc handles also have a spindle that goes through the centre of the handle, and into the frame of the window to activate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are usually found on older uPVC windows and have distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles are held to the frame of the window by one screw, and are less secure than other kinds of window handles.

Handles that turn and tilt

The tilt and turn handles are different from other upvc handles because they can be rotated for opening the window, and then tilted into the window to ventilate. In general, they have a 7mm spindle at the back of the handle. They are available in left and right-handed versions.

It is essential to know the spindle size when buying replacement handles made of upvc. Not all of them are exactly the same size. To determine the length of your handle made of upvc, simply drop something in the middle of the hole and measure how far it extends before meeting an obstruction. This is the longest spindle length that will fit in your window.

What is spindles?

uPVC window handles operate similarly to doors. By turning the handle, you are able to operate a latch within the frame. This unlocks the window to allow it to be closed and opened. The handles could be damaged, especially if often used or are exposed to harsh conditions. This can lead to the need to replace your uPVC handles for windows as they might not operate the window properly anymore.

There are a variety of uPVC handle options, such as Espag, UPVC Window Handle Replacement Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed to fit inside the uPVC frames in different ways, and each type of handle uses a specific spindle to lock the mechanism to the window. This is why it is essential to know the type of handle you have installed on your uPVC window to find the right replacement.

The base of the handle will inform you what type of uPVC it is. There should be a "snap-in' cover over one screw which holds the handle base in the correct position. Once you remove this, you will be able see the screw that holds the base of the handle in position. 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 will need to remove the old spindle from the locking mechanism. Take note of the length of the spindle. You'll need to buy a replacement of the same length as the original handle and the locking device.

The main issue with most window handle problems with uPVC is that the spindle gets worn-out and is unable to longer function properly with the locking mechanism. This could be due wear and tear from continuous use, a loosening of the locking mechanism, or even rust over time. When 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?

Window handles can become damaged or broken over time. It is essential to fix them as quickly as you can to ensure your safety. The good news is that replacing a damaged or worn handle is a easy task that can be carried out in less than one minute and doesn't require any special tools.

The first step to remove the old handle is to take off the screw located at the top of the base of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle will be removed. There will be another screw located at the bottom of the handle's base and it can be removed as well. Once these two screws have been removed, the handle can be removed from the window's base.

After removing the handle, align the fixing holes of the new handle with the holes already present in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle remove it if needed and put the handle back in the appropriate position. Once the handle is in place, it is important to test that it works by turning the handle and making sure that the lock mechanism activates.

Espag handles have an elongated spindle that extends from the handle and slot into a multipoint locking mechanism in the window frame. Cadenza windows have a blade with cutouts that fit into the lock mechanism. Cockspur handles are long and hang over the frame that surrounds the window or the transom crossmember of the bar.

Once you have the new handle in place, insert the spindle into the lock inside the window and then tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if appropriate) after the handle is securely fixed. Once the handle is ready to use, you can open and close the window a couple of times to ensure it works properly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

The process of changing your window handle made of uPVC isn't difficult and the process is actually very simple. All you require is a screwdriver and little bit of patience. The first thing you need to do is make sure that the handle is locked and then take out any screws that are visible, you can replace them by screw caps if you need. Once the handle is removed, you need to make an note of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial as it will determine what kind of handle you will need to buy.

Espagnolette handles are the most commonly used kind of handle that is used on uPVC windows. They have a spindle which runs through the handle and operates a locking mechanism inside the frame of the double glazed window replacement. When the handle is turned, it releases the latch on the window and allows it to open. When used regularly and time, espagnolette handles may be damaged.

Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is usually employed with tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that operates the multipoint locking mechanism inside the window. They are usually more secure than handles made of espagnolette because they can only be opened from the inside. They can be replaced using the same procedure as espagnolette handles but you must ensure that the new handle has a curved blade as opposed to a flat one.

Once you've decided on the right handle to purchase, you can simply align the new handle to the existing screw holes, and then screw it into the appropriate position. Then, put the screw covers on and test the new handle. You can do this by moving the handle between the locked position to the unlocked one for a few times. If you encounter any issues, it might be worthwhile contacting a professional to see if they can assist in resolving the issue. They are often able to advise you on the best way to resolve the issue in a quick and effective way.