UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a broken window handle is a easy process, and, with the right tools, it can be done quite quickly. It's important to know what kind of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before you purchase an alternative.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur that protrudes and locks over the cockspur wedge striker. These can be right-handed or left-handed and must be matched when replacing.

What type of lock or handle do I have?

There are many different types of window handles made of upvc and locks, each with their own benefits and UPVC Window Handle Replacement purposes. The kind of handle you choose 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 usage, the window handles made of upvc may become damaged or worn out, making them less secure and efficient. In certain instances, they might even fall off completely. It is important to repair your window handles made of upvc as soon as you notice them falling off. This will stop possible burglaries, and keep your house safe.

The good news is that replacing your window handles made of upvc is a relatively simple task that is achievable by anyone. You will need some basic tools, but with proper knowledge, it's simple and should only take a few minutes. You will need to know the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will help you choose the appropriate replacement window seals.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are usually found on the sides of the window. They are flat in design and feature a latch that engages with the locking mechanism of the frame of the window when it is turned. Inline upvc handles have a spindle that goes through the centre of the handle, and into the window frame to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are usually found on older uPVC windows and have an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are secured to the window frame by only one screw and are less secure than other varieties of window handle.

Handles that can tilt and turn

The tilt and turn handles differ from other upvc handles in that they can be rotated to open the window and then tilted into the window to ventilate. In general, they have a 7mm spindle on the side of the handle. They are available in left and right-handed versions.

It is crucial to determine the spindle's size prior to purchasing a replacement handles made of upvc. There are a few that are the exact same size. To test the length of your upvc handle, simply drop something in the middle of the hole and 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 spindles?

uPVC window handles function similar to doors, by turning the handle to operate an opening inside the frame. The window then opens and shut. The handles could be damaged, especially if often used or are exposed to harsh environments. It is possible to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they're not operating correctly.

There are a variety of uPVC handles available comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. 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. It is important to identify the type of handle installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with the right one.

The base of the handle will inform the type of uPVC it is. There should be a "snap in' cover over one screw that holds the handle's base in the correct position. Once you remove this you will be able to observe the second screw that holds the handle base in place. Once both screws are removed you should be in a position to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

After taking off the uPVC handle, carefully unscrew it from the locking mechanism. Take note of the length of the spindle. You will need to purchase a replacement with the same length as the handle that was originally used and locking device.

The main issue with most window handle problems with uPVC is that the handle spindle gets worn out and cannot longer work with the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage from frequent use, or the locking mechanism becoming looser. If this happens, you'll have to replace both the window replacement handle and the locking mechanism to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.

How do I remove my old handle?

Through time and regular usage, window handles could become damaged or broken and when this happens, it is crucial to repair them as soon as you can to ensure the security of your home. Fortunately, replacing a damaged or worn handle is a fairly simple task that can be accomplished in less than an hour and doesn't require any special tools.

To take off the handle, first remove the screw at the bottom of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle can be removed. A second screw is located at the base of the handle. It can also be removed. Once both of these screws are removed, the handle can be completely detached from the base of the window.

After removing the old handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle to the holes already present in the window frame. There may be a little sticker or caps on the new handle, so take off the caps if needed, and then screw the handle in its place. It is essential to ensure whether the handle functions after it is installed. Turn the handle and make sure that the lock mechanism is working.

Espag handles have spindles that protrude out of the handle and slot into the multipoint locking mechanism on the window frame. Cadenza windows have an edge with cut-outs which slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have a long nose that is able to hook over either the outer frame or transom bar cross member in the window.

Once you have installed the new handle, slide the spindle inside the window lock and tighten it. Once the handle is firmly fixated and secured, replace the snap-in cover and the screw cap (if appropriate). The handle is now ready to use, so try opening and closing the window several times to check that it is working well and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

Changing your uPVC window handle isn't difficult, and the process is simple. You only need a screwdriver, and a bit of perseverance. First, make sure the old handle is unlocked. Remove any screws visible. You could also replace them with screw caps. After removing the handle, you will need to note the length of the spindle that extends from the back. This is crucial as it will determine the type of handle that you will require to purchase.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular kind of handle that is used on uPVC windows. The spindle passes through the handle to operate 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 over time, handles made of espagnolette can be damaged.

Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is commonly employed with tilt and turn windows. They have an extended blade that works the multipoint locking mechanism inside the window. They are more secure than espagnolette handles because they are able to open from the inside. They can be replaced with the same procedure as espagnolette handles, however you must ensure that the new handle has a curved blade instead of a flat one.

Once you've decided on the right handle to purchase You can simply align the new handle with the screw holes, and then screw it into place. Then, you should put the screws on and test your new handle. You can perform this by dragging the handle between the locked position to the unlocked one for a few times. If you encounter any issues, it may be worth contacting a specialist to see if they are able to assist in resolving the issue. They can often advise you on the best solution to solve the issue in a fast and effective way.