UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a damaged window handle is a easy process, and, with the right tools, it can be done quickly. It is important to know the type of handle you have and its spindle size before purchasing the replacement.

Older uPVC windows use handles with cockspurs, which have spurs that protrude to secure a wedge-shaped cockspur striker plate. These can be either right or left-handed and have to match when replacing.

What type of lock or handle do I have

There are many upvc window locks and handles each with their own advantages and purposes. 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. As time passes, and with regular use, the upvc handles on your windows could get worn out and damaged. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some cases they could even disappear completely. It is crucial to fix your upvc window handles as soon as you notice them falling off. This will help avoid burglaries and keep your home safe.

It’s a simple job that almost anyone can do. With just a few tools and the right knowledge it’s a straightforward procedure that shouldn’t take longer than a couple of minutes. You must be aware of the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will help you choose the right replacement.

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 come with a latch that engages with the locking mechanism of the window frame when turned. Inline upvc handles have a spindle that goes through the center of the handle, and into the frame of the window to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and feature a distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are attached to the window frame by only one screw and are less secure than other varieties of window handles.

Handles that turn and tilt

Unlike the other upvc handles the tilt and turn handles can be rotated to open the windows and tilted inwards for ventilation. In general, they feature a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle and are available in both left and right-handed versions.

When buying replacement upvc handles, it is important to check the spindle length since not all of them are identical in size. Drop something in the middle of the hole to test 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 as doors. By turning the handle, you are able to operate a latch within the frame. The window can then be opened and shut. These handles can be damaged, particularly if they’re frequently used or exposed to harsh conditions. You may need to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they are not able to operate it correctly.

There are many different kinds of uPVC handles that are available, comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handles. They are designed in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle type uses an entirely different spindle for locking the window mechanism. It is crucial to know the kind of handle that is installed on your uPVC windows so that you can replace it with the correct one.

You can find out what kind of uPVC handle you are using by taking a look at the base of your handle. A snap-in cover should be over the screw that holds the handle’s base in place. Remove this and then you should be able see the second screw at the opposite end of the base of the handle. After both screws are removed, you should be able take the handle out of the uPVC.

After you have removed the uPVC window handle you need to carefully unscrew the old spindle from the locking mechanism. Note the length of the spindle. You will need to buy a replacement of the same length as the original handle and the locking device.

The spindle wears down and becomes inoperable with the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage from frequent use, or an unreliable locking mechanism. When this happens it will be necessary to replace the window handle and locking mechanism to restore full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I get rid of my old handle?

In the course of time and daily use, UPVC Window Handle Replacement window handles can become damaged or broken, and if this happens, it is important to repair them as quickly as possible to ensure the safety of your home. It is good to know that replacing a damaged or worn handle is a fairly easy task that can be carried out in just over a minute and doesn’t require any specialized tools.

To remove the old handle, you must first remove the screw that is located at the bottom of the handle. Once the screw has been removed, the handle can be removed. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle base, and it is able to be removed too. After both screws are removed, the handle can be removed from the base of the window.

Once the old handle has been removed, grab the new handle and align the fixing holes with the holes that are present in the window frame. There may be a little sticker or caps on the new handle, so take them off these if necessary and then put the handle in the frame. It is crucial to verify whether the handle functions after it is installed. Turn the handle around and ensure that the lock mechanism is in place.

Espag handles have an extra spindle that is protruding from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism within the window frame. Cadenza windows feature an edge with cut-outs which slot into the lock mechanism, while Cockspur handles have an extended nose that hangs over the frame’s outer or transom bar cross-member within the glass window replacement.

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

How do I put in the new handle?

It’s not difficult to change the handle on your windows made of uPVC. The process is easy. You only need an screwdriver and a bit of perseverance. The first step is ensure that the handle is locked and then remove any screws that are visible, you can replace them by screw caps if you need. After the handle has been removed, you need to make an outline of the length of the spindle which protrudes from the back of the handle. This is important as it will determine the type of handle that you will require to purchase.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular kind of handle that is used on uPVC windows. The spindle is inserted into the handle to activate the locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle opens the latch, allowing the window to open. Over time and through regular use, espagnolette handles could be damaged or destroyed which is why it is essential to locate replacements.

Cadenza handles are a form of uPVC handle that is usually used with tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that operates an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within the window. They are more secure than the espagnolette handle as they can only open from the inside. You can replace them using the same method that you would with espagnolette handles however, make sure that the new handle is angled, not flat.

After you have chosen the correct handle, you can align the new handle to existing screw holes before fixing it with screws. Then, put the screws on and test the new handle. This is done by shifting the handle from the locked position to the unlocked and vice versa several times. If you encounter any issues, it may be worthwhile contacting a professional to see if they are able to assist in resolving the issue. They are often able to advise you on the best solution to solve the issue in a speedy and efficient way.