UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It's easy to repair a broken window handle with the right tools. It is important to know your type of handle and the spindle's length prior buying an alternative.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur that protrudes and locks over the wedge striker. They can be right or left-handed and have to match when replacing.

What type of lock and handle do I have?

There are a variety of windows locks and handles made of upvc each with its distinct advantages and functions. The type of handle you have will determine whether or not your locking mechanism is efficient and if it is easy to open windows. As time passes and with regular use, window handles made of upvc can become damaged or worn out, making them less effective and secure. In certain instances, they might even fall off completely. If you notice that your upvc window handles have been removed, it's important to repair them as quickly as you can. This will help prevent burglaries, and keep your house secure.

Luckily, replacing your upvc window handles is a relatively simple task that can be done by almost everyone. You'll need a few basic tools, but with the appropriate knowledge, it's simple and fitted should take only a couple of minutes. You must know the kind of lock or handle you have on your window. This will allow you to choose the correct replacement double glazing windows.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most commonly used kind of upvc handle and are typically located on the outside of your window. They have a flat design and feature an opening that is connected to the locking mechanism on the window frame when it is turned. Inline upvc handles have spindles that run through the centre of the handle, and into the frame of the window to activate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are typically found on older uPVC windows and fitted feature distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles have a single screw that secures the handle to the window frame and aren't as secure as other kinds of window handles.

Handles that 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. They typically have a 7mm spindle on the side of the handle. They are available in left and right handed versions.

It is important to measure the spindle's size prior to purchasing a new upvc handles. Not all are the exact same size. Drop something into the middle of the hole to test the length. This is the longest spindle length that will fit in your window.

What is spindles?

uPVC window handles work similar as doors, with the user turning the handle to activate an opening inside the frame. The window is then opened and closed. However, sometimes the handles may become damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. It is possible to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they're not able to operate it correctly.

There are a variety of uPVC handles to choose from, including Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handles. These handles are designed to fit into the uPVC frames in a variety of ways, and each type of handle has a particular spindle that is used to lock the mechanism fitted to the window replacement. This is why it is crucial to identify the kind of handle is installed on your uPVC window to get the correct replacement for it.

The base of the handle will inform the type of uPVC it is. A snap-in covers should be over the screw that holds the handle's base in position. When you remove this cover and you'll be able to see the second screw that holds the handle base in position. After both screws are removed you should be capable of pulling the handle away from the uPVC window.

Once you have removed the uPVC window handle, you have to carefully remove the spindle that was previously attached to the locking mechanism. Be sure to note the length of the spindle, as you will need to ensure that you purchase a replacement that has the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.

The primary issue with window handle problems with uPVC is that the spindle gets worn out and cannot longer operate the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage from frequent use, or a loosening locking mechanism. If this happens, it is required to replace the window handle and the locking mechanism to restore complete functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I remove the handle that was previously attached?

Through time and regular use, window handles may be damaged or destroyed, and if this happens, it is essential to fix them as quickly as possible to ensure the security of your home. It is good to know that replacing a worn or damaged handle is a simple job that can be carried out 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 has been removed, the handle will be removed. A second screw is located at the bottom of the handle. This can also be removed. After the two screws are removed, the handle can be detached from the window's base.

Once the old handle has been removed, grab the new handle and line up the fixing holes with the holes that are currently in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle, take it off it if necessary and then put the handle back in place. Once the handle is in place, it is crucial to verify that it works by turning the handle and ensuring that the lock mechanism is activated.

Espag handles feature a spindle which protrudes out of the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism that is on the frame of the window. Cadenza windows feature blades with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have an extended nose that hangs over either the frame's outer or transom bar cross-member inside the window.

Once you have installed the new handle, slide the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if applicable) after the handle is securely fixed. The handle is now ready for use, so try opening and closing the window a few times to check that it functions properly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

It's not difficult to alter the handle on your Upvc windows. The procedure is simple. All you require is a screwdriver and little bit of patience. The first thing you need to do is ensure that the handle you have previously used is locked and then take out any screws that are visible, you can replace them by screw caps if you need. After the handle has been removed and you are ready to take a note of the length of the spindle that extends from the back of the handle. This is crucial as it will determine the kind of handle you'll need to buy.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular kind of handle that is used on uPVC windows. They have a spindle which runs through the handle and operates an internal locking mechanism within the frame of the window. When the handle is turned it opens the latch on the window and allows it to open. When used regularly and over time, handles for espagnolette may become damaged.

Cadenza handles are a form of uPVC handle that is commonly employed with tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that operates a multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are generally more secure than handles made of espagnolette because they can only be opened from the inside. They can be replaced with the same method as espagnolette handles, however you must make sure that the new handle has an angled blade instead of one that is flat.

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 screws back on and make sure your new handle is operating correctly. You can perform this by dragging the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked one for a few times. If you encounter any issues, it may be worth contacting a specialist to determine if they can help resolve the problem. They can provide advice on how to fix the problem in a timely and effective way.