UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a broken window handle is a simple process and, with the right tools, it can be accomplished quite quickly. But it's essential to know your type of handle and the spindle length before buying the replacement.

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

What kind of lock and handle do I have?

There are a myriad of windows locks and handles made of upvc each with its own advantages and purposes. The type of handle you are using will determine how easy it is to open your windows and UPVC Window Handle Replacement if the locking mechanism functions according to the plan. As time passes, and with regular use the handles made of upvc on your windows can get worn out and damaged. This makes them less secure and effective. In certain instances, they might even fall off completely. If you find that your window handles have fallen off, it's important to fix them as soon as possible. This will stop possible burglaries and ensure that your home is secure.

It's a task that virtually anyone can perform. With just a few tools and the proper knowledge it's a simple procedure that should take no longer than a couple of minutes. To get started you must determine the type of lock and handle that you have on your window, which will help you find the perfect replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most common type of upvc handle and are usually placed on the side of your window. They are flat and have an open latch that is connected to the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles also come with a spindle that runs through the center of the handle, and into the frame of the window to activate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are typically found on older uPVC window frames and feature a distinctive, hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are attached to the frame of the window replacement with only one screw and are less secure than other types of window handle.

Handles that can tilt and turn

Unlike the other upvc handles, tilt and turn handles can be turned to open the window, and tilted inwards to let air flow in. In general, they feature a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle and are available in left and right-handed versions.

It is important to measure the spindle's size prior to purchasing a replacement handles made of upvc. Not all are exactly the same size. Drop something in the middle of the hole to check the length. This is the maximum size of spindle that will fit in your windows.

What is spindles?

uPVC window handles operate similarly to doors, by turning the handle to operate a latch inside the frame. This unlocks the window to allow it to be opened and closed. The handles can become damaged, particularly if they're often used or are exposed to harsh environments. It is possible to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they are not able to operate it correctly.

There are a variety of uPVC handle options, such as Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle type utilizes a different spindle to lock the window mechanism. This is why it is crucial to know the kind of handle you have installed on your uPVC window to get the correct replacement.

You can determine the type of uPVC handle you have by inspecting the base of the handle. There should be a "snap-in' cover over one screw that holds the handle base in the correct position. Remove this and then you should be able see the second holding screw at the opposite end of the base of the handle. After both screws have been removed, you should be able to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

After you have removed the uPVC handle, remove it from the locking mechanism. Take careful note of the length of the spindle, as you will need to ensure that you purchase a replacement that has the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.

The most common issue with window handles made of uPVC is that the spindle becomes worn out and cannot longer work with the locking mechanism. This can be due to damage caused by constant use or loosening of the locking mechanism, or even corrosion that occurs over time. If this occurs, it is necessary to replace the window handle and locking mechanism to restore the full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I get rid of the handle that was previously attached?

Window handles are susceptible to being damaged or destroyed over time. It is important to repair them as quickly as possible to ensure your safety. The good news is that replacing a damaged or worn handle is a simple task that can be carried out in just over a minute and doesn't require any specialized tools.

The first step in removing the handle that was previously used is to take off the screw located on the top of the handle base. After this screw is removed, the handle will be removed from the base section. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle's base, and this can be removed too. Once these two screws are removed, the handle can be detached from the base of the window.

After removing the handle, align the fixing holes of the new handle with the holes already present in the window frame. There might be a small cap or sticker on the new handle, so take off them 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 over and make sure the lock mechanism is in place.

Espag handles come with an elongated spindle that extends from the handle and slot into a multipoint locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. Cadenza windows have a blade with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have a long nose that is able to hook over the frame's outer or transom bar cross-member within the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, insert the spindle into the lock in the window and then tighten it down. Once the handle is firmly fixed in place and secured, replace the snap-in cover and the screw cap (if applicable). Once the handle is ready to use, you can open and close the window a couple of times to make sure that it functions properly and securely.

How do I fit the new handle?

It's not difficult to change the handle on your Upvc windows. The process is easy. All you need is a screwdriver, and a bit of perseverance. The first thing you need to do is to ensure that the handle you have previously used is locked and then remove any screws that are visible, you can replace them by screw caps if you need. After you have removed the handle, you will need to note the length of the spindle which extends from the back. This is crucial as it will determine the kind of handle you'll require to purchase.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle used on uPVC windows. They have a spindle that runs through the handle, and is responsible for an internal locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle releases the latch and allows the window to open. As time passes and with regular use, espagnolette handles could become damaged or impaired and it is necessary to find an alternative.

Cadenza handles are a form of uPVC handle that is typically employed with tilt and turn windows. They have an elongated blade that functions as a multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are more secure than espagnolette handle as they can only open from the inside. You can replace them using the same method that you would for espagnolette handles however, ensure that the new handle is angled, not flat.

Once you've decided on the right handle for you You can simply line up the new handle with the existing screw holes, and then screw it in place. Then, put the screws on and test the new handle. This is accomplished by moving the handle from the locked to the unlocked position and vice versa a few times. If you have any issues, it may be worthwhile contacting a professional to see if they can assist you in solving the issue. They can provide advice on how to fix the issue in a timely and efficient way.