UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It's simple to repair a broken window handle with the right tools. But it's essential to know your handle's type and spindle's length prior buying a replacement.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur that protrudes and UPVC Window Handle Replacement locks on a wedge striker. These can be left- or right-handed and should be compatible when replaced.

What kind of lock or handle do I have?

There are a variety of upvc window handles and locks, each having their own benefits 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 functions as intended. With time and regular use, the upvc handles on your windows may become damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In certain instances, they might even fall completely off. If you notice that your upvc window handles have fallen off, it's essential to repair them as quickly as possible. This will prevent possible break-ins, and keep your house secure.

It is a good thing that replacing your upvc window handles is a fairly simple job that can be completed by nearly anyone. With a few basic tools and the right information, this is a simple procedure that should take no longer than a couple of minutes. To begin, you will need to determine the kind of handle and lock you have on your upvc window and upvc window handle Replacement then to find the ideal replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are typically found on the sides of the window. They are flat in design and feature a latch that connects to the locking mechanism on the window frame when turned. Inline upvc handles have a spindle that goes through the middle of the handle and into the frame of the window to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and feature an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have a single screw that secures the handle to the window frame and aren't as secure as other types of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

The tilt and turn handles differ from other upvc handles in that they can be rotated for opening the window, and then tilted to the window to let air circulate. In general, they have a 7mm spindle at the side of the handle. They are available in both left and right handed versions.

When buying replacement upvc handles, it is important to check the spindle length since not all of them are identical in size. Drop something into the middle of the hole to test the length. This is the largest spindle size that will fit in your windows.

What is spindles?

uPVC window handles operate similarly like doors. By turning the handle, you are able to operate a latch within the frame. The latch opens the window, to allow it to be opened and closed. However, sometimes the handles may become damaged, particularly when they are used frequently or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This could mean that you have to replace your uPVC handles for windows as they may not operate the window in a proper manner in the future.

There are many different types of uPVC handle options, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. These handles are designed to fit inside the uPVC frames in different ways, and each type of handle has a particular spindle that is used to lock the mechanism into the window. It is crucial to know the type of handle you have installed on your uPVC windows so that you can replace it with the correct one.

You can check what type of uPVC handle you have by inspecting the base of your handle. There should be a "snap in cover' over one screw that holds the handle's base in the correct position. Take it off and you should be able see the second screw located at the opposite end of the base of the handle. After both screws have been removed and you are able to pull the handle from the uPVC.

After taking off the uPVC handle, remove it from the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle, as you'll need to ensure that you purchase an alternative that is the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.

The spindle wears out and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This can be due to wear and tear from continuous use or a loosening of the locking mechanism, or even corrosion that occurs over time. When this happens it will be necessary to replace the window handle as well as the locking mechanism to restore the full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I take off the old handle?

Window handles can be damaged or even broken over the course of time. It is essential to fix them as quickly as you can to ensure your safety. It is simple to replace a worn or damaged handle. The task can be accomplished in under one minute without the need for special tools.

To take off the handle, first remove the screw at the base of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle can be pulled away from the base. There will be a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle's base and it is able to be removed as well. After these two screws have been removed, the handle will be removed from the window's base.

After the handle has been removed, grab the new handle and line up the fixing holes with the holes present in the window frame. There may be a tiny cap or sticker on the new handle, so take off the caps if needed, and then put the handle in its place. Once the handle is in place it is crucial to verify that it is working by turning the handle, and ensuring that the lock mechanism activates.

Espag handles come with an extra spindle that is protruding from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism within the frame of the window. Cadenza windows feature a blade with cutouts that fit into the lock mechanism. Cockspur handles are long and hang over the frame of the window or the transom bar crossmember.

Once you have the new handle in place, insert the spindle inside the lock in the window and then tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if necessary) after the handle is fixed. When the handle is ready for use, you can open and close the window a few times to make sure it is working properly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

Switching your uPVC window handle isn't a big deal and the process is actually very simple. You only need a screwdriver, and a bit of patience. First, make sure that the old handle is unlocked. Then remove any screws visible. You can also replace them with screw caps. After removing the handle it is necessary to take an outline of the length of the spindle which protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial since it will determine the type of handle you'll need to purchase.

Espagnolette handles on uPVC are the most well-known kind of handle. The spindle passes through the handle to operate the locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle releases the latch, allowing the window to open. During regular use and over time, handles made of espagnolette can become damaged.

Cadenza handles are a type of uPVC handle that is usually used in tilt and turn windows replacement. They feature a protruding blade that operates a multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are more secure than espagnolette handle as they can only open from the inside. They can be replaced using the same procedure as espagnolette handles but you should 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 existing screw holes before screwing it in place. You should then put the screw covers back on and verify that your new handle is operating correctly. This is done by moving the handle from locked position to the unlocked and the reverse direction several times. It might be worthwhile to speak with an expert to determine how you can fix any problems. They can often advise you on the best way to solve the issue in a speedy and efficient manner.