UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a damaged or broken window handle is a easy task and, with the right tools, it can be accomplished quite quickly. However, it is essential to know your handle's type and spindle's length prior to purchasing an alternative.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur that protrudes and locks over the wedge striker for cockspur. They can be right-handed or left-handed and should be compatible when replaced.

What type of lock and handle do I have?

There are a variety of upvc window locks and handles each with their distinct advantages and functions. The type of handle that you have will determine if your locking mechanism is efficient and if it is easy to open the windows. As time passes, and with regular use the upvc handles that are on your windows can become damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and effective. In some instances, they could even fall completely off. It is essential to fix the handles on your window made of upvc immediately if you notice they are falling off. This will avoid burglaries and protect your home from burglary.

It's an easy task that anyone can complete. With a few basic tools and the right information it's a simple procedure that should take no longer than a couple of minutes. To begin you'll need to determine the type of handle and lock you have on your window made of upvc and then identify the best replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most commonly used type of upvc handles and are usually located on the side of your window. They are flat and come with an open latch that is connected to the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles have a spindle that runs through the middle of the handle to the window frame to control the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older upvc window handle replacement window frames and have distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles are held to the frame of the window by one screw, and are less secure than other kinds of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

The tilt and turn handles are different from other upvc handles in that they can be rotated for opening the window, and then lowered into the window to allow air circulation. They have a 7mm spindle on the back and are available in left and right-handed versions.

When you are purchasing replacement handles for upvc, it is important to measure the spindle's length because not all handles are the same size. Drop something into the middle of the hole to check the length. This is the longest spindle length that will fit your window.

What is a spindle?

uPVC window handles work similarly to doors, by turning the handle to activate a latch inside the frame. The latch opens the window, so that it can be opened and closed. However, in some cases, handles can be damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This could mean that you have to replace your uPVC handles on windows since they might not be able to operate the window in a proper manner in the future.

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

You can determine the type of uPVC handle you are using by inspecting the base of the handle. There should be a «snap in' cover over one screw which holds the handle base in place. When you remove this cover, you will be able see the second screw that holds the handle base in place. After both screws have been removed and you are able to take the handle out of the uPVC.

After you have removed the uPVC window handle, you will need to carefully unscrew the spindle you have removed from the locking mechanism. Take note of the length of the spindle. You'll need to purchase a replacement with the same length as the handle that was originally used and the locking device.

The primary issue with window handle problems with uPVC is that the spindle becomes worn out and can no longer function properly with the locking mechanism. This could 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 and the locking mechanism to restore complete functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I get rid of my old handle?

Over time and through everyday use, window handles may become damaged or broken, and if this happens, it is essential to fix them as soon as you can to ensure the security of your home. It is easy to replace a worn or damaged handle. The job can be completed in less than one minute without the need for special tools.

The first step in removing the handle that was previously used is to remove the screw situated at the top of the base of the handle. After the screw is removed, the handle will be pulled away. There will be another screw located at the bottom of the handle base, and it 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 handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle with the holes already present in the window frame. If there is a sticker or cap on the new handle, take it off it if required and screw the handle in place. Once the handle is in place it is important to test that it works by turning the handle and ensuring that the lock mechanism activates.

Espag handles feature spindles that extend from the handle and slot into the multipoint locking mechanism on the window frame. Cadenza windows have an edge with cut-outs which slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have a long nose that hooks over the frame's outer or transom bar cross member within the window.

After you have installed the new handle, slide the spindle into the window glass replacement lock and tighten it. Once the handle is firmly fixed in place and secured, replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if applicable). Once the handle is ready to use, open and close the window a couple of times to make sure it is working correctly and securely.

How do I put in the new handle?

It's not that difficult to change the handle on your windows made of uPVC. The process is simple. All you need is a screwdriver and a little bit of patience. The first thing to do is ensure that the handle you have previously used is locked and then take out any screws that are visible. you can also replace them with screw caps if needed. After removing the handle it is necessary to take a note of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is important as it will determine the kind of handle that you will require to purchase.

Espagnolette handles that are made of uPVC are the most sought-after type of handle. They have a spindle which is inserted into the handle and acts as a locking mechanism within the window frame. When the handle is turned it releases the latch on the window and allows it to open. During regular use and over time, handles made of espagnolette can become damaged.

Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is usually used in tilt and turn windows. They have an elongated blade that functions as the multipoint locking mechanism inside the window. They are generally more secure than handles made of espagnolette because they can only be opened from the inside. You can replace them using the same method as you would for espagnolette handles however, ensure that the new handle is angled and not flat.

After you have chosen the correct handle, you can align the new handle with the existing screw holes before screwing it in place. After that, you should put the screws back on and test that the new handle functions correctly. You can perform this by dragging the handle between the locked position to the unlocked one a few time. It may be worth contacting an expert to see whether you can solve any problems. They can offer advice on how to fix the issue in a timely and effective manner.