UPVC Window Handle Replacement
It’s simple to repair a broken window handle with the right tools. But it’s essential to know your type of handle and its spindle’s length prior to purchasing the replacement double glazing windows.
Older uPVC windows feature handles with cockspurs, which have a spur that protrudes to the lock of a wedge cockspur striker plate. These can be right-handed or left-handed, and must be compatible when replaced.
What type of lock and handle do I have?
There are a myriad of upvc window locks and handles each with its own advantages and purposes. The type of handle you choose will determine whether or not your locking mechanism is efficient and also if it is simple to open windows. With time and regular use the handles made of upvc on your windows can become damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some instances, they could even fall off completely. It is crucial to fix the handles on your window made of upvc immediately if you begin to notice they are falling off. This will avoid burglaries and keep your home safe.
Luckily, replacing your window handles made of plastic is a relatively simple task that is achievable by nearly everyone. With just a few tools and the right knowledge it’s a straightforward procedure that shouldn’t take longer than a couple of minutes. To begin you must determine the kind of handle and lock you have on your window made of upvc to help you identify the best replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
They are typically found on the sides of the window. They are flat and feature an opening that engages 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 in order to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
They are typically found on older uPVC window frames and have a distinctive, hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the window frame by only one screw and are less secure than other kinds of window handles.
Tilt and Turn Handles
As opposed to the other upvc handles that are tilt and turn, these handles can both be rotated to open the windows and the handle can be tilted to the side to allow ventilation. They have a 7mm spindle on the back and are available both in left and right-handed versions.
It is crucial to determine the spindle size when buying new upvc handles. Not all are the exact same size. To test the length of your upvc handle, simply drop something into the middle of the hole, and then measure how far it extends before it comes into contact with an obstruction. This is the length of the spindle that will fit your window.
What is spindles?
uPVC window handles function similarly to doors. By turning the handle, you can operate a latch within the frame. The window is then opened and shut. However, in some cases, these handles can become damaged, UPVC Window Handle Replacement 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 many different kinds of uPVC handles available comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handles. These handles are designed in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle type utilizes an individual spindle to lock the window mechanism. It is important to identify the type of handle you have installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with a suitable 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. Take it off and you should be able see the second screw at the opposite end of the base portion of the handle. After both screws are removed, you should be able remove the handle from the uPVC.
After you have removed 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 one that is the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.
The primary issue with uPVC window handle problems is that the handle spindle gets worn-out and is unable to longer operate the locking mechanism. This could be due wear and tear from continuous use, a loosening of the locking mechanism or even corrosion over time. If this occurs, you will need to replace both the window handle and the locking mechanism in order to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.
How do I get rid of my old handle?
Through time and regular usage, window handles could become damaged or broken and if this happens, it is important to repair them as soon as you can to ensure the security of your home. The good news is that replacing a worn or damaged handle is a relatively simple job that can be carried out in just over a minute and doesn’t require any specialized tools.
The first step in removing the old handle is to remove the screw located at the top of the base of the handle. Once the screw has been removed, the handle can be pulled away. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle’s base and it can be removed as well. After both screws are removed, the handle can be removed from the base section of the window.
After removing the old handle, align the fixing holes of the new handle to the holes that are already in the window frame. There may be a little cap or sticker on the new handle, so take off these if necessary and then screw the handle into its place. Once the handle is in place, it is crucial to verify that it works by turning the handle, and ensuring that the lock mechanism activates.
Espag handles have an elongated spindle that extends from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism within the window frame. Cadenza windows come with blades with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism, while Cockspur handles have a long nose that hooks over either the outer frame or the transom bar cross member in the window.
After you have put in the new handle, insert the spindle inside the window lock and tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if appropriate) once the handle has been firmly fixed. The handle is now ready to use to use, so try opening and closing the window several times to ensure that it functions 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 very easy. You’ll need an screwdriver and a bit of perseverance. First, make sure the handle is not locked. Then, remove any screws that are visible. You can also replace them with screw caps. Once the handle is removed it is necessary to take an note of the length of the spindle that extends from the back of the handle. This is important because it will determine the type of handle you need to buy.
Espagnolette handles that are made of uPVC are the most well-known type of handle. They feature a spindle that is inserted into the handle, and is responsible for a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle releases the latch and allows the window to open. As time passes and with regular use, espagnolette handles may become damaged or impaired and it is necessary to find replacements.
Cadenza handles are another type of uPVC window handle that is commonly used on tilt and turn windows replacement. They feature an extended blade that works a multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are generally more secure than handles made of espagnolette because they can only be opened from the inside. They can be replaced using the same method that you would for espagnolette handles however, ensure that the new handle is angled, not flat.
Once you have selected the correct handle, simply align the new handle to existing screw holes before fixing it with screws. Then, put the screw covers on and test the new handle. This is done by shifting the handle from the locked to the unlocked position and the reverse direction a few times. It may be worth contacting an expert to determine how you can fix any issues. They are often able to advise you on the best approach to solve the issue in a speedy and effective manner.