UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It is easy to repair a broken window handle using the appropriate tools. But it's essential to know your type of handle and its spindle's length prior buying an alternative.

Older uPVC windows have cockspur window handles which have a spur that protrudes to lock over a cockspur wedge striker plate. They can be right-handed or left-handed and must be compatible when replaced.

What kind of lock and handle do I have?

There are a variety of window locks and handles made from upvc each with their distinct advantages and functions. The type of handle that you choose will determine if the locking mechanism you have is effective and if it is easy to open windows. As time passes, replacement uPVC window handles and with regular use the handles made of upvc on your windows can be damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some cases they might even be completely removed. If you find that your window handles have been removed, it's important to fix them as soon as you can. This will avoid burglaries and keep your home safe.

It's a task that anyone can complete. You'll require a few tools, but with the right knowledge, it is simple and should only take a couple of minutes. To begin you must determine the type of lock and replacement uPVC window handles handle you have on your upvc window to help you to find the ideal replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most commonly used type of upvc handles and are typically located on the other side of your 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 an elongated spindle that runs through middle of the handle to the window frame to control the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are usually found on older uPVC windows and feature a distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are attached to the frame of the window with one screw, and are less secure than other kinds of window handles.

Handles that tilt and turn

In contrast to other handles made of upvc the tilt and turn handles can both be rotated to open the windows and turned inwards to allow to let air flow in. They have a 7mm spindle at the back and are available both in right-hand and left-hand versions.

When you are purchasing replacement handles for upvc It is crucial to measure the spindle's length because not all handles are the same size. To test the length of your upvc handle simply drop something in the middle of the hole and then measure the distance it travels before it reaches an obstruction. This is the largest spindle size that will fit into your windows.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles work in a similar way to doors, by turning the handle to open an opening inside the frame. This unlocks the window so that it can be opened and closed. However, in some cases, handles can be damaged, especially if they are regularly used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This could mean that you have to replace your uPVC windows handles as they may not be able to operate the window correctly in the future.

There are many types of uPVC handle options, such as Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. These handles are designed to fit into the uPVC frames in different ways and each handle type uses a specific spindle to lock the mechanism fitted to the window. It is important to identify the kind of handle that is installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with a suitable one.

The base section of the handle will inform you what kind of uPVC it is. There should be a "snap in cover' over one screw that holds the handle's base in place. Take it off and you should be able to see the second screw at the opposite end of the base section of the handle. Once both screws are removed you should be able to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

Once you have removed your uPVC window handle, you will need to remove the spindle that was previously attached to the locking mechanism. Note the length of the spindle. You'll need purchase a replacement with the same length as the handle that was originally used and locking device.

The main issue with most window handles made of uPVC is that the spindle becomes worn-out and is unable to longer operate the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage due to constant use or a loosening locking mechanism. If this happens, you'll have 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 my old handle?

sash window replacement handles are susceptible to being damaged or destroyed over time. It is crucial to fix them as soon as you can to ensure your safety. It is good to know that replacing a damaged or worn handle is a fairly simple job that can be carried out in less than an hour and doesn't require any specialist tools.

To take off the handle, first remove the screw that is located at the base of the handle. After the screw is removed, the handle can be removed. A second screw is situated at the base of the handle. It can also be removed. After these two screws are removed, the handle will be removed from the window's base.

Once the old handle has been removed, take the new handle and line up the fixing holes with the holes that are currently in the window frame. There may be a tiny cap or sticker on the new handle, so remove these if necessary and then put the handle in the frame. It is important to check whether the handle functions after it is installed. Turn the handle around and make sure that the lock mechanism is activated.

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

Once you have installed the new handle, slide the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Once the handle is firmly fixed in place and secured, replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if appropriate). The handle is now ready to use, so try opening and closing the window a few times to make sure that it works well and securely.

How do I fit the new handle?

It's not that difficult to change the handle on your uPVC windows. The process is very simple. All you need is a screwdriver, and a little bit of patience. First, ensure that the handle that you are replacing is unlocked. Then remove any screws that are visible. You could also replace them with screw caps. Once the handle is removed it is necessary to take a note of the length of the spindle which protrudes from the back of the handle. This is vital as it will determine what kind of handle you will need to buy.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle for uPVC windows. They have a spindle that runs through the handle and operates an internal locking mechanism within the window frame. When the handle is turned, it releases the latch on the window and allows it to open. Over time and through regular use, espagnolette handles could become damaged or impaired and it is necessary to find a replacement upvc window handles (you could try these out).

Cadenza handles are a different kind of uPVC window handle, which is typically used on tilt and turn windows. They have an extended blade that works an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within the window. They are generally more secure than espagnolette handles as they are only accessible from the inside. They can be replaced by the same procedure as espagnolette handles however you must ensure that the new handle has an angled blade, as opposed to flat ones.

Once you have decided on the correct handle to purchase then you can place the new handle with the screw holes, and then screw it in place. You should then put the screws back on and verify that the new handle is working properly. You can do this by dragging the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked for a few times. If you experience any issues, it may be worthwhile contacting a professional to see if they can assist you in solving the issue. They can often advise you on the best solution to resolve the issue in a fast and effective way.