UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a damaged or broken window handle is a easy task and with the right tools it can be accomplished quite quickly. However, it is essential to know the type of handle and its spindle's length prior to purchasing a replacement.

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

What kind of lock or handle do you have? I have?

There are a variety of upvc window locks and handles, each with its own advantages and purposes. The type of handle you are using will determine how easy it is to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism works as intended. As time passes, and with regular use the handles made of upvc on your windows could become damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some instances they might even disappear completely. If you find that your window handles have been removed, it's essential to repair them as quickly as possible. This will help prevent burglaries and ensure that your home is safe.

It's a task that anyone can complete. With just a few tools and the proper knowledge it's a straightforward process that shouldn't take longer than a couple of minutes. It is important to know the type of handle or lock that you have on your window. This will allow you to choose the correct replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most common kind of upvc handle and are usually placed on the side of your window. They are flat and have a latch which engages the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles also have spindles that run through the center of the handle, and into the frame of the window to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are typically found on older uPVC window frames. They have a distinctive, hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have one screw that secures the handle to the frame and are not as secure as other types of window handles.

Handles that can tilt and turn

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 feature a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle and are available in left and right-handed versions.

When purchasing replacement window locks handles made of upvc It is crucial to check the spindle length as not all are the same 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 it comes into contact with an obstruction. This is the maximum spindle size that will fit your windows.

What is a spindle?

uPVC window handles function in a similar manner to doors. By turning the handle, you will be able to activate a latch inside the frame. This unlocks the window so it can be opened and closed. The handles can become damaged, particularly if they're often used or are exposed to harsh conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC handles on windows since they might not operate the window correctly in the future.

There are many different kinds of uPVC handles to choose from, including Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. They are designed to fit inside the uPVC frames in various ways, and each type of handle has a particular spindle that is used to lock the mechanism fitted into the window. It is important to identify the type of handle you have installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with the correct one.

The base section of the handle will tell the type of uPVC it is. A snap-in cover should be over the screw that holds the handle's base in place. Remove this and then you should be able to see the second holding screw at the opposite end of the base portion of the handle. After both screws have been removed, you should be able to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

After taking off the uPVC handle, remove it from the locking mechanism. Take careful note of the length of the spindle since you will need to ensure that you buy a replacement that has the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.

The primary issue with window handle problems with uPVC is that the handle spindle gets worn out and cannot longer function properly with the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage from frequent use, or an unreliable locking mechanism. If this happens, it is necessary to replace the window handle and locking mechanism to restore the full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I get rid of my old handle?

Window handles can become damaged or even broken over the course of time. It is essential to fix them as quickly a possible to ensure your safety. It is simple to replace a worn or damaged handle. The job can be accomplished in less than a minute without the need for any special tools.

The first step to remove the old handle is to remove the screw that is located on the top of the base of the handle. Once the screw has been removed, the handle will be pulled away. A second screw is situated at the base of the handle. It can also be removed. Once these two screws are removed, the handle can be detached from the window's base.

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

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

Once you have the new handle in place, you can insert the spindle inside the lock in the window and then tighten it. Once the handle is firmly fixed and secured, replace the snap-in cover and the screw cap (if applicable). The handle is now ready to use by opening and closing the window several times to make sure that it works well and securely.

How do I install 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 small amount of patience. First, make sure that the handle that you are replacing is unlocked. Then remove any visible screws. You can also replace them using screw caps. After the handle has been removed and you are ready to take a note of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is vital because it will determine the kind of handle you will need to purchase.

Espagnolette handles on uPVC are the most popular kind of handle. The spindle is inserted into the handle to control the locking mechanism in the frame of the window. Once the handle is turned it releases the latch on the window and allows it to open. In regular use and time, handles made of espagnolette can become damaged.

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 more secure than an espagnolette handles because they are able to open from the inside. They can be replaced by the same method as espagnolette handles however you must ensure that the new handle has a curved blade instead of one that is flat.

Once you've decided on the correct handle to purchase, you can simply line up the new handle with the existing screw holes, and then screw 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 locked position to the unlocked and vice versa several times. It is possible to contact an expert to see if you can resolve any issues. They can offer advice on how to solve the issue in a quick and efficient manner.