UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a damaged window handle is a easy process, and with the right tools it can be done quickly. It's important to know the type of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before you purchase a replacement.

Older uPVC windows have handles with cockspurs, which have spurs that protrude to lock over a cockspur wedge striker plate. These can be either right or left-handed and have to match when replacing.

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

There are a myriad of window locks and handles made from upvc each with their particular advantages and uses. The type of handle that you have will determine whether or not your locking mechanism is efficient and also if it is simple to open the windows. With time and regular use, upvc window handles may become damaged or worn out, rendering them less secure and UPVC Window Handle Replacement efficient. In some cases, they may even fall off completely. It is essential to fix your upvc window handles when you notice them falling off. This will avoid burglaries and ensure your home is secure.

The good news is that replacing your window handles made of plastic is a fairly simple job that can be completed by everyone. You'll need some basic tools, but with the proper knowledge, it's an easy task that will take only a couple of minutes. To get started you must determine the kind of lock and handle that you have on your window made of upvc to help you identify the best replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are usually found on the sides of the window. They are flat in design and come with an opening that is connected to the locking mechanism of the window frame when it is turned. Inline upvc handles come with a spindle running through the middle of the handle into the window frame to control the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older upvc window handle replacement window frames. They have an unusual hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are attached to the frame of the window by a single screw and are less secure than other varieties of window handle.

Handles that turn and tilt

The tilt and turn handles differ from other upvc handles because they can be turned to open the window and then lowered into the window to allow air circulation. In general, they feature a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle and are available in both left and right handed versions.

It is important to measure the spindle's size prior to purchasing a replacement handles made of upvc. There are a few that are exactly the same size. To determine the length of your upvc handle simply drop something in the middle of the hole and measure how far down it goes before it reaches an obstruction. This is the maximum spindle length that will fit your window.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles operate in a similar way like doors. By turning the handle, you can activate a latch inside the frame. This opens the window so that it can be opened and closed. However, in some cases, the handles may become damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to extreme weather conditions. This can lead to the need to replace your uPVC handles for windows as they might not be able to operate the window correctly for a long time.

There are a variety of uPVC handles to choose from, comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handles. They are made in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle style uses a different spindle to lock the window mechanism. It is essential to determine the kind of handle that is installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with the correct one.

The base of the handle will inform you what kind of uPVC it is. There should be a "snap in cover over one screw that holds the handle's base in place. Take it off and you should be able see the second screw on the opposite side of the base of the handle. After both screws have been removed, you should be able take the handle out of the uPVC.

After taking off the uPVC handle, carefully unscrew it from the locking mechanism. Take note of the length of the spindle. You'll need purchase a replacement with the same length as the original handle and locking device.

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

How do I take off the handle that was previously attached?

Window handles are susceptible to being damaged or broken over time. It is crucial to fix them as quickly as possible to ensure your security. Fortunately, replacing a damaged or worn handle is a relatively simple task that can be completed in less than an hour and doesn't require any special tools.

To remove the old handle, you must first remove the screw located at the base of the handle. Once this is removed the handle can be pulled away from the base section. There will be a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle's base and it can be removed too. After these two screws are removed, the handle will be removed from the base of the window.

Once the old handle is removed, take the new handle and align the fixing holes with the holes that are present in the window frame. There may be a tiny cap or sticker on the new handle, so remove these if necessary and then put the handle in its place. Once the handle is set, it is important to test that it is working by turning the handle, and ensuring that the lock mechanism is activated.

Espag handles feature spindles that extend out of the handle and slot into the multipoint locking mechanism that is on the window frame. Cadenza windows have a blade with cutouts which fit into the lock mechanism. Cockspur handles are long and are hung over the frame of the window or the transom crossmember of the bar.

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) once the handle has been firmly fixed. The handle is now ready for use, so try opening and closing the window several times to check that it is working correctly and securely.

How do I fit the new handle?

It's not difficult to alter the handle on your uPVC windows. The procedure is easy. All you require is a screwdriver, and a small amount of patience. First, make sure the old handle is unlocked. Then, remove any screws visible. You could also replace them with screw caps. After removing the handle you'll need to take note of the length of the spindle which extends from the back. This is vital as it will determine what type of handle you need to buy.

Espagnolette handles that are made of uPVC are the most well-known type of handle. The spindle is inserted into the handle to control the locking mechanism in the window frame. Once the handle is turned it opens the latch on the window, allowing it to open. As time passes and with regular use, espagnolette handles could become damaged or impaired, making it necessary to find an alternative.

Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is commonly employed with tilt and turn windows. They feature an elongated blade that functions as a multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are more secure than an espagnolette handles since they only open from the inside. You can replace them using the same method as you would with espagnolette handles, but make sure the new handle is not angled and flat.

After you have chosen the right handle, simply align the new handle to existing screw holes prior to screwing it into place. Then, you should put the screw covers on and test your new handle. This is accomplished by moving the handle from the locked to the unlocked position and then back to the locked position a few times. If you experience any issues, it may be worth contacting a specialist to see if they can help resolve the problem. They can advise you on how to resolve the problem in a timely and effective manner.