UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a broken window handle is a simple process and with the right tools it can be done quickly. It's important to know the type of handle you have and its spindle size before you purchase an alternative.

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

What type of lock or handle do I have?

There are a myriad of window locks and handles made from upvc each with their 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 works in the way you want it to. As time passes and with regular usage, the window handles made of upvc may become damaged or worn out, rendering them less secure and efficient. In some instances they might even disappear completely. It is important to repair your window handles made of upvc replacement window handles immediately if you see them falling off. This will help prevent burglaries, and keep your house secure.

The good news is that replacing your window handles made of upvc is a relatively simple task that can be done by nearly anyone. With just a few tools and the right knowledge, this is a simple process that shouldn't take more than a couple minutes. It is important to know the kind of handle or lock that you have on your window. This will help you choose the right replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are usually found on the sides of the window. They are flat and have an open latch that is connected to the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles also have a spindle that runs through the middle of the handle and UPVC Window Handle Replacement then into the frame of the window to activate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames and feature an unusual hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have a single screw that is used to secure the handle to the frame and aren't as secure as other kinds of window replacement cost uk handles.

Handles that tilt and turn

Unlike the other upvc handles the tilt and turn handles can be rotated to open the window and the handle can be tilted to the side for ventilation. They have a 7mm spindle at the back and are available in right and left-handed versions.

When buying replacement upvc handles it is essential to check the spindle length because not all handles are the same size. Drop something into the middle of the hole to test the length. This is the maximum spindle length that will fit in your window.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles operate similarly like doors, turning the handle to open an opening inside the frame. The window can then be opened and closed. However, in some cases, the handles may become damaged, particularly when they are used frequently or exposed to extreme weather conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC handles for windows as they might not be able to operate the window correctly anymore.

There are many different kinds of uPVC handles to choose from, comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. These handles are designed in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle style uses an entirely different spindle for locking the window mechanism. This is why it is important to know the type of handle you have on your uPVC window to find the right replacement.

You can determine the type of uPVC handle you have by looking at the base section of your handle. A snap-in cover should be over the screw that holds the base of the handle in place. Take it off and you should be able 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 able to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

Once you have removed your uPVC window handle you need to carefully remove the spindle you have removed from the locking mechanism. Take careful note of the length of the spindle as you'll need to make sure that you buy an alternative that is the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.

The most common issue with window handles made of uPVC is that the handle spindle gets worn out and can no longer function properly with the locking mechanism. This could be due to corrosion, damage from frequent use, or an unreliable locking mechanism. If this happens, you'll need to replace both the window handle and the locking mechanism to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.

How do I get rid of the old handle?

In the course of time and daily use, window handles can become damaged or broken and if this happens it is essential to fix them as quickly as possible to ensure the security of your home. The good news is that replacing a damaged or worn handle is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just over a minute and doesn't require any special tools.

The first step in removing the old handle is to take off the screw located at the top of the handle base. Once the screw has been removed, the handle will be pulled away. There will be another screw located at the bottom of the handle's base and it is able to be removed too. After both screws are removed the handle can be removed completely from the base of the window.

Once the old handle has been removed, grab the new handle and align the fixing holes with the holes that are present in the window frame. There may be a little cap or sticker on the new handle, so remove the caps if needed, and then put the handle in the frame. It is essential to ensure that the handle is working after it has been installed. Turn the handle and make sure the lock mechanism is in place.

Espag handles come with an elongated spindle that extends from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism in the window frame. 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 the new handle in place, you can insert the spindle inside the lock in the window and then tighten it down. When the handle is fixated and secured, replace the snap-in cover and the screw cap (if applicable). When the handle is ready for use, open and close the window a few times to make sure it is working correctly and securely.

How do I fit the new handle?

Changing your uPVC window handle isn't difficult, and the process is simple. All you require is a screwdriver and a little bit of patience. The first thing you need to do is to ensure that the old handle is not locked and then remove any screws that are visible, you can replace them with screw caps if needed. 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 you'll need to buy.

Espagnolette handles made of uPVC are the most popular type of handle. The spindle is inserted into the handle to activate the locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. The handle opens the latch and allows the window to open. In regular use and over time, handles made of espagnolette can become damaged.

Cadenza handles are a type of uPVC handle that is commonly used with tilt and turn windows. They have an elongated blade that functions as a multipoint locking mechanism within 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 by the same method as espagnolette handles, however you should ensure that the new handle has a curved blade, as opposed to a flat one.

After you have picked the correct handle, you can align the new handle with the existing screw holes prior to fixing it with screws. Then, put the screw covers back on and test that the new handle is working correctly. This is done by moving the handle from the locked to the unlocked position and vice versa several times. It is possible to contact an expert to determine if you can resolve any issues. They can often advise you on the best approach to solve the issue in a quick and effective way.