UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a damaged or broken window handle is a simple process and with the right tools it can be done quite quickly. It is important to identify the kind of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before purchasing an alternative.

Older uPVC windows use cockspur handles for windows. They have a spur that protrudes to secure a wedge-shaped cockspur striker plate. They can be left or right-handed and need to be replaced with the same handle.

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

There are many kinds of window handles made from upvc and locks, each with their own benefits and purposes. The type of handle you are using will determine how easy it is to open your windows and if the locking mechanism works in the way you want it to. As time passes, and with regular use, the upvc handles on your windows could become damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In certain instances, they might even fall off completely. If you notice that your upvc window handles have been removed, it's essential to repair them as quickly as possible. This will help stop potential burglaries and keep your home safe.

It's an easy task that anyone can complete. With a few basic tools and the proper knowledge it's a straightforward procedure that should take no less than a few minutes. To begin, you will need to identify the type of lock and handle that you have on your upvc window, which will help you to find the ideal replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most commonly used type of upvc handle and UPVC Window Handle Replacement are usually placed on the outside of your window. They are flat and have a latch which engages the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles come with an elongated spindle that runs through middle of the handle into the window frame in order to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are usually found on older uPVC windows and feature distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles are fitted with a single screw that is used to secure the handle to the window frame and aren't as secure as other kinds of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

The tilt and turn handles differ from other handles made of upvc in that they can be turned to open the window and then tilted to the window to let air circulate. In general, they feature a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle. They are available in both left and right-handed versions.

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

What is a spindle?

uPVC window handles operate similar as doors, with the user turning the handle to open a latch inside the frame. The window then opens and closed. However, sometimes these handles can become damaged, particularly if they are regularly used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. You may need to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they are not operating properly.

There are a variety of uPVC handles that are available, comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handles. These handles are designed to fit in the uPVC frames in different ways, and each type of handle uses a specific spindle to lock the mechanism to the window. It is crucial to know the type of handle 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. A snap-in cover is over the screw that holds the base of the handle in place. Remove this and then you should be able to see the second holding screw located at the opposite end of the base of the handle. After both screws are removed, you should be able pull the handle from the uPVC.

After removing the uPVC handle, carefully remove it from the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle, as you'll need to make sure that you purchase a replacement that has the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.

The spindle wears down and becomes inoperable with the locking mechanism. This could be due to damage from constant use, a loosening of the locking mechanism or even corrosion over time. If this happens, you'll need to replace both the window handle and locking mechanism to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.

How do I remove my old handle?

Over time and through everyday usage, window handles could become damaged or broken and when this happens, it is important to repair them as soon as you can to ensure the safety of your home. Fortunately, replacing a damaged or worn handle is a fairly simple job that can be carried out in less than a minute and doesn't require any special tools.

To take off the handle, you must first remove the screw located at the bottom of the handle. Once this is removed the handle can then be removed from the base section. There will be a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle base, and this can be removed as well. Once both of these screws are removed the handle can be removed completely from the base of the window.

After removing the old handle and align the fixing holes of the new handle to the holes that are already in the window frame. There may be a tiny sticker or caps on the new handle, so remove these if necessary and then screw the handle into its place. Once the handle is set, it is essential to check that it is working by turning the handle, Double Glazing Replacement Windows and ensuring that the lock mechanism activates.

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

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

How do I put in the new handle?

It's not difficult to alter the handle on your uPVC windows. The process is simple. You'll need an screwdriver and a bit of patience. The first thing to do is ensure that the handle is locked and then remove any screws that are visible, you can also replace these with screw caps if required. Once the handle is removed and you are ready to take an note of the length of the spindle which protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial because it will determine the kind of handle to purchase.

Espagnolette handles that are made of uPVC are the most popular kind of handle. The spindle is inserted into the handle to control the locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. When the handle is turned, it releases the latch on the window, allowing it to open. Over time and through regular use, espagnolette handles may be damaged or destroyed which is why it is essential to locate a replacement.

Cadenza handles are another type of uPVC window handle commonly used on tilt and turn windows. They have a protruding knife that operates a multiple-point locking mechanism within the window. They are more secure than an espagnolette handles since they only open from the inside. They can be replaced using the same method as espagnolette handles, however you must make sure that the new handle has a curved blade instead of flat ones.

Once you have determined the right handle for you, you can simply align the new handle with the screw holes and then screw it into the appropriate position. Then, you should put the screw covers on and test the new handle. You can do this by dragging the handle between the locked position to the unlocked for a few times. If you have any issues, it could be worthwhile contacting a professional to determine if they can assist you in solving the issue. They can provide advice on how to solve the issue in a quick and effective manner.