UPVC Window Handle Replacement
It’s easy to repair a damaged window handle using the appropriate tools. However, it is essential to know your type of handle and its spindle’s length prior to purchasing the replacement.
Older uPVC window handles have a spur which extends and is locked over the wedge striker for cockspur. They can be left- or right-handed and should be matched when replacing.
What type of lock and handle do I have?
There are a myriad of windows locks and handles made of upvc each with its particular advantages and uses. The type of handle that you have will determine whether or not your locking mechanism is efficient and if it is easy to open the windows. With time and regular use the upvc handles that are on your windows may be damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some instances, they could even fall off completely. It is important to repair your upvc window handles as soon as you notice they are falling off. This will help to stop potential burglaries and ensure your home is secure.
It’s an easy task that virtually anyone can perform. You will need a few basic tools, but with the appropriate knowledge, UPVC Window Handle Replacement it’s simple and should take only a couple of minutes. You must know the kind of handle or lock that you have on your window. This will help you choose the right replacement handles for upvc windows.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
These are the most common type of upvc handle and are typically located on the outside of your window. They have a flat design and feature a latch that connects to the locking mechanism of the window frame when turned. Inline upvc handles also come with a spindle that runs through the centre of the handle and then into the window frame to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
These handles are typically found on older uPVC windows and feature an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have a single screw that holds the handle to the window frame and are not as secure as other kinds of window handles.
Tilt and UPVC Window Handle Replacement Turn Handles
The tilt and turn handles differ from other upvc handles because they can be rotated to open the window and then tilted into the window to ventilate. They typically have a 7mm spindle at the back of the handle and are available in both left and right-handed versions.
When purchasing replacement handles made of upvc It is crucial to measure the spindle’s length because not all handles are the same size. Drop something into the middle of the hole to measure the length. This is the maximum spindle size that will fit into your windows.
What is the spindle?
uPVC window handles work in a similar manner to doors. By turning the handle, you will be able to operate a latch within the frame. This opens the window to allow it to be opened and closed. These handles can be damaged, especially if they’re often used or are exposed to harsh conditions. You may have to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they’re not functioning properly.
There are many types of uPVC handle options, such as Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. These handles are made in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle type uses a different spindle to lock the window mechanism. It is essential to determine the type of handle installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with the right one.
The base of the handle will tell the type of uPVC it is. There should be a “snap in cover’ over one screw that holds the handle base in place. When you remove this cover, you will be able observe the second screw that holds the base of the handle in place. After both screws are removed, you should be able take the handle out of the uPVC.
Once you have removed your uPVC window handle, you will need to carefully unscrew the old spindle from the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle, as you’ll need to make sure that you buy an alternative that is the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.
The primary issue with window handle problems with uPVC is that the spindle becomes worn out and cannot longer operate the locking mechanism. This could be due to corrosion, damage caused by constant use or an unreliable locking mechanism. If this happens, you will have to replace both the window handle and locking mechanism in order to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.
How do I get rid of the old handle?
Over time and through everyday use, window handles can become damaged or broken and when this happens, it is essential to fix them as soon as you can to ensure the safety of your home. It is good to know that replacing a damaged or worn handle is a simple task that can be carried out in less than an hour and doesn’t require any special tools.
To take off the handle, first remove the screw located at the base of the handle. Once this is removed the handle can then be pulled away from the base. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle’s 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 old handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle with the holes already present in the window frame. There might be a small sticker or caps on the new handle, so take them off the caps if needed, and then screw the handle into the frame. It is important to check that the handle is working after it is put in place. Turn the handle around and make sure that 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 within the window frame. Cadenza windows come with an edge with cut-outs which slot into the lock mechanism, while Cockspur handles have a long nose that hooks over either the frame’s outer or transom bar cross member within the window.
After you have put in the new handle, insert the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if necessary) once the handle is fixed. Once the handle is in use, you can open and close the window a couple of times to make sure it is working correctly and securely.
How do I install the new handle?
Switching your uPVC window handle isn’t difficult, and the process is simple. All you require is a screwdriver, and a little bit of patience. The first thing to do is make sure that the handle you have previously used is in the unlocked position and then take out any screws that are visible, you can also replace them by screw caps if you need. Once the handle is removed and you are ready to take an outline of the length of the spindle which protrudes from the back of the handle. This is important because it will determine the kind of handle you will need to purchase.
Espagnolette handles made of upvc replacement window handles are the most well-known kind of handle. They feature a spindle that is inserted into the handle and operates an internal locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle opens the latch, allowing the window to open. When used regularly and time, handles made of espagnolette can be damaged.
Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is commonly used with tilt and turn windows. They have a protruding knife that operates a multiple-point locking mechanism within the window. They are usually more secure than espagnolette handles since they can only be opened from the inside. You can replace them with the same procedure as you would with espagnolette handles, but make sure the new handle is angled and not flat.
After you have picked the correct handle, you can align the new handle with existing screw holes prior to fixing it with screws. Then, put the screws back on and test that the new handle is working properly. You can accomplish this by dragging the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked for a few times. It may be worth contacting an expert to determine if you can resolve any issues. They can advise you on how to solve the issue in a timely and effective way.