UPVC Window Handle Replacement
It’s simple to repair a damaged window handle with the right tools. It is important to know your type of handle and its spindle’s length prior to purchasing a double glazing replacement window.
Older uPVC window handles have a spur which protrudes and locks on a wedge striker for cockspur. They can be left- or right-handed, and must be matched when replacing.
What type of lock or handle do I have?
There are many kinds of upvc window handles and locks, each with their particular advantages and uses. The type of handle you have will determine how easy it is to open your windows and if the locking mechanism works in the way you want it to. Over time, and with regular use, the upvc handles on your windows may get worn out and damaged. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some instances, fitting they could even fall off completely. It is crucial to fix your window handles made of upvc as soon as you see them falling off. This will help to stop potential burglaries and ensure your home is secure.
It is a good thing that replacing your window handles made of upvc is a relatively simple task that can be done by almost everyone. With just a few tools and fitting the right information it’s a straightforward process that shouldn’t take more than a couple minutes. To begin you must determine the type of lock and handle you have on your window made of upvc, which will help you to find the ideal replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
These are the most commonly used type of upvc handle and are usually placed on the outside 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 have spindles that run through the center of the handle and then into the frame of the window to activate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and feature an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are attached to the frame of the window by one screw, and are less secure than other varieties of window handles.
Handles that turn and tilt
In contrast to other upvc handles that are tilt and turn, these handles can both be rotated to open the window, and the handle can be tilted to the side to allow ventilation. They feature a 7mm spindle on the back and are available in left and right-handed versions.
It is important to measure the spindle size when buying new upvc handles. There are a few that are exactly the same size. Drop something in the middle of the hole to check the length. This is the maximum spindle length that will fit your window.
What is the spindle?
uPVC window handles work in a similar way to doors. By turning the handle, you are able to activate a latch inside the frame. This unlocks the window so that it can be opened and closed. The handles can become damaged, especially if they’re used frequently or exposed to harsh environments. This can lead to the need to replace window handles your uPVC windows handles as they may not be able to operate the window in a proper manner for a long time.
There are many types of uPVC handle options, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed to fit into the uPVC frames in a variety of ways, and each type of handle utilizes a specific spindle to lock the mechanism to the window. It is important to identify the kind of handle that is installed on your uPVC windows so that you can replace it with a suitable one.
The base section of the handle will tell the type of uPVC it is. There should be a “snap-in’ cover over one screw which holds the handle base in the correct position. Once you remove this and you’ll be able to observe the second screw that holds the handle base in position. After both screws have been removed then you should be able to remove the handle from the uPVC.
After you have removed the uPVC handle, carefully remove it from the locking mechanism. Be sure to note the length of the spindle as you will need to ensure that you purchase one that is the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.
The main issue with most window handles made of uPVC is that the handle spindle gets worn out and can no longer work with the locking mechanism. This could be due damage caused by constant use, a loosening of the locking mechanism or even corrosion over time. When this happens it is required to replace the window handle as well as the locking mechanism to restore complete functionality to your uPVC windows.
How do I get rid of the handle from the previous one?
Through time and regular use, window handles can be damaged or destroyed, and if this happens, it is crucial to repair them as soon as possible to ensure the security of your home. The good news is that replacing a worn or damaged handle is a easy task that can be accomplished in just over a minute and doesn’t require any specialized tools.
The first step to remove the handle that was previously used is to take off the screw situated at the top of the handle base. Once the screw has been removed, the handle can be removed. There will be 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 will be removed from the window’s base.
Once the old handle has been removed, grab the new handle and align the fixing holes with the holes that are currently in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle, remove it if required and put the handle back in place. It is important to check that the handle works once it has been installed. Turn the handle over and make sure the lock mechanism is in place.
Espag handles feature spindles that protrude from the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism on the window frame. Cadenza windows feature blades with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have an extended nose that hangs over either the frame’s outer or the transom bar cross member within the window.
After you have put in the new handle, slide the spindle inside the window lock and tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if necessary) after the handle has been firmly fixed. Now that the handle is ready to use, simply open and close the window a couple of times to make sure that it functions correctly and securely.
How do I fit the new handle?
Switching your uPVC window handle isn’t difficult, and the process is simple. All you need is a screwdriver and a bit of patience. First, make sure that the old handle is unlocked. Then remove any screws that are visible. You could also replace them with screw caps. Once the handle is removed it is necessary to take a note of the length of the spindle that extends from the back of the handle. This is crucial as it will determine what kind of handle you will need to purchase.
Espagnolette handles are the most common type of handle for uPVC windows. They feature a spindle that runs through the handle and operates a locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. The handle opens the latch, allowing the window to open. When used regularly and time, handles made of espagnolette can become damaged.
Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is commonly used with tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding knife that is operated by a multi-point locking mechanism within the window. They are generally more secure than handles made of espagnolette because they are only accessible from the inside. They can be replaced by the same procedure as espagnolette handles, however you must make sure that the new handle has an angled blade as opposed to one that is flat.
Once you have decided on the right handle to purchase You can simply place the new handle with the screw holes, and then screw it in place. Then, put the screw covers on and test your new handle. You can accomplish this by moving the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked several times. It may be worth contacting an expert to see if you can resolve any issues. They can provide advice on how to fix the problem in a timely and effective way.