UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a damaged window handle is a relatively easy process, and, with the right tools, it can be done quickly. It's important to know what kind of handle you have and the spindle's size before you purchase the replacement.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur which extends and is locked over the wedge striker. These can be either left or right-handed and need to be replaced with the same handle.

What kind of lock and handle do I need?

There are a variety of upvc window handles and locks, each with its own benefits and purposes. The type of handle that you have will determine whether or not the locking mechanism you have is effective and if it is easy to open windows. As time passes and with regular use, upvc window handles are prone to wear or damage. out, making them less secure and efficient. In some instances they might even be completely removed. If you notice that your upvc window handles have fallen off, it's essential to fix them as soon as possible. This will help to prevent potential break-ins and protect your home from burglary.

It is a good thing that replacing your upvc window handles is a fairly simple job that is achievable by everyone. With a few basic tools and the proper knowledge, Window Handle Replacement this is a simple process that shouldn't take less than a few minutes. To begin, you will need to determine the kind of lock and handle you have on your upvc window, which will help you identify the best replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are the most popular kind of upvc handle and are usually placed on the outside of your window. They are flat in design and have a latch that engages with the locking mechanism on the window frame when turned. Inline upvc handles have a spindle running through the middle of the handle into the window frame to control the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are typically found on older uPVC windows and feature an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are attached to the window frame by only one screw and are less secure than other types of window handle.

Tilt and Turn Handles

The tilt and turn handles differ from other upvc handles in that they can be turned to open the window and then lowered into the window to allow air circulation. They typically feature a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle. They are available in left and right-handed versions.

When purchasing replacement handles for upvc windows handles made of upvc It is crucial to verify the length of the spindle because not all handles are identical in size. To test the length of your upvc handle simply drop something into the middle of the hole and then measure how far it extends before meeting an obstruction. This is the largest spindle size that will fit your windows.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles work similarly as doors, with the user turning the handle to activate an opening inside the frame. The window then opens and closed. The handles can become damaged, particularly if they're used frequently or exposed to harsh environments. It is possible to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they are not able to operate it properly.

There are many types of uPVC handle options, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed to fit in the uPVC frames in various ways, and each type of handle utilizes a specific spindle to lock the mechanism to the window. This is why it is crucial to know what type of handle is installed on your uPVC window so you can get the correct replacement for it.

You can determine the type of uPVC handle you have by inspecting the base of your handle. A snap-in covers should be 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 in a position to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

Once you have removed your uPVC window handle, you will need to carefully remove the old spindle from the locking mechanism. Note the length of the spindle. You'll need purchase a new one that is the same length as the handle that was originally used and the locking device.

The spindle wears down and becomes inoperable with the locking mechanism. This could be due to corrosion, damage caused by continuous use, or even an unreliable locking mechanism. If this happens, you'll need to replace both the window handle and locking mechanism to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.

How do I remove the handle that was previously attached?

Over time and through everyday usage, window handles could be damaged or destroyed, and when this happens, it is crucial 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 completed in under a minute without the need of special tools.

The first step to remove the handle that was previously used is to take off the screw located at the top of the base of the handle. Once this is removed the handle can 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 is able to be removed as well. After these two screws have been removed, the handle can be detached from the window's base.

After removing the handle and align the fixing holes of the new handle with the holes that are already in the window frame. There might be a small sticker or caps on the new handle, so remove the caps if needed, and then screw the handle in the frame. Once the handle is in place, it is essential to check that it works by turning the handle, and ensuring that the lock mechanism activates.

Espag handles have a spindle that protrudes from the handle and slot into a multipoint locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. Cadenza windows have a blade with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have an extended nose that hangs over the frame's outer or transom bar cross-member within the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, slide the spindle into the lock inside the window and then tighten it down. When the handle is fixed then replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if necessary). Once the handle is ready for use, simply open and close the window a few times to make sure that it functions correctly and securely.

How do I fit the new handle?

Changing your uPVC window handle isn't a big deal and the process is quite simple. All you require is a screwdriver and a little bit 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 removing the handle and you are ready to take a 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 to buy.

Espagnolette handles made of uPVC are the most popular type of handle. The spindle runs through the handle to control the locking mechanism inside the window frame. The handle opens the latch, allowing the window to open. As time passes and with regular use, espagnolette handles could be damaged or destroyed which is why it is essential to find an alternative.

Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is commonly used in tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that operates a multiple-point locking mechanism inside the window. They are more secure than espagnolette handles since they only open from the inside. You can replace them with the same method as you would for espagnolette handles, but make sure the new handle is angled, not flat.

Once you've decided on the right handle to purchase, you can simply place the new handle to the existing screw holes, and then screw it into the appropriate position. After that, you should put the screws back on and verify that the new handle is working properly. This is accomplished by moving the handle from locked to the unlocked position and the reverse direction a few times. If you encounter any issues, it could be beneficial to speak with a professional to see if they are able to assist you in solving the issue. They can offer advice on how to resolve the issue in a quick and efficient way.