Ten Things You Need To Learn About Upvc Window Handle Replacement

UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a damaged or broken window handle is a easy task and, with the right tools, it can be done quickly. It's important to identify the kind of handle you have and the spindle's size before you purchase the replacement.

Older uPVC windows use handles with cockspurs, which have a spur that protrudes to the lock of a wedge cockspur striker plate. These can be either left or right-handed and need to be replaced with the same handle.

What kind of lock or handle do you have? I have?

There are many kinds of window handles made of upvc and locks, each with its particular advantages and uses. The kind of handle you choose will determine how easy it is to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism functions in the way you want it to. As time passes, and with regular use the upvc handles that are on your windows could be damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some instances, they could even fall off completely. If you find that your window handles have fallen off, it is important to repair them as quickly as possible. This will prevent potential break-ins and ensure your home is secure.

Luckily, replacing your window handles made of plastic is a relatively simple task that can be completed by almost everyone. With just a few tools and the right information it's a straightforward process that shouldn't take longer than a couple of minutes. You must know the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will allow you to choose the right replacement upvc window handles.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most commonly used type of upvc handles and are usually placed on the side of your window. They have a flat design and come with an opening that is connected to the locking mechanism of the window frame when it is turned. Inline upvc handles have a spindle that runs through the middle of the handle to the window frame to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are typically found on older uPVC window frames and have an unusual hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the frame of the window by a single screw and are less secure than other varieties of window handle.

Tilt and Turn Handles

Unlike the other upvc handles the tilt and turn handles can be turned to open the window and tilted inwards to allow ventilation. They typically feature a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle. They are available in both left and right-handed versions.

When you are purchasing replacement handles for upvc it is essential to measure the spindle's length since not all of them are the same size. Drop something into the middle of the hole to test the length. This is the largest spindle size that will fit your windows.

What is a spindle?

uPVC window handles operate similarly as doors, with the user turning the handle to open an opening inside the frame. The window is then opened and closed. The handles can become damaged, especially if frequently used or exposed to harsh environments. You may need to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they are not able to operate it properly.

There are a variety of uPVC handles that are available, including Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. They are designed to fit into the uPVC frames in a variety of ways, and each type of handle uses a specific spindle to lock the mechanism fitted into the window. It is crucial to know the type of handle you have 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 the handle. There should be a'snap in cover' over one screw that holds the handle's base in the correct position. Remove this and then you should be able to see the second screw on the opposite side of the base section of the handle. After both screws are removed you should be in a position to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

After you have removed the uPVC window handle you need to remove the spindle that was previously attached to the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle, as you will need to ensure that you purchase a replacement window glass that has the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.

The spindle wears out and cannot operate the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage due to frequent use, or the locking mechanism becoming looser. If this occurs, 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 my old handle?

Over time and through everyday usage, window handles could be damaged or destroyed, and if this happens it is essential to fix them as soon as you can to ensure the security of your home. It is good to know that replacing a worn or damaged handle is a relatively simple task that can be accomplished in less than one minute and doesn't require any specialized tools.

To remove the old handle, you must first remove the screw at the base of the handle. After this screw is removed, the handle can be removed from the base section. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle's base and it is able to be removed too. When both screws are removed the handle can be completely detached from the base portion of the window.

After removing the handle and fixing holes, UPVC Window Handle Replacement align the holes of the new handle to the holes already present in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle remove it if necessary and then screw the handle in the appropriate position. It is important to check that the handle works once it is installed. Turn the handle around and ensure that the lock mechanism is in place.

Espag handles come with a spindle which protrudes from the handle and slot into the multipoint locking mechanism that is on 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 is able to hook over either the frame's outer or the transom bar cross member within the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, insert the spindle inside the lock inside the window and then tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if appropriate) after the handle has been firmly 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?

It's not difficult to change the handle on your uPVC windows. The procedure is easy. All you require is a screwdriver and a little bit of patience. The first step is to 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 you have removed the handle, you'll need to take note of the length of spindle that extends from the back. This is crucial since it will determine the type of handle that you will need to buy.

Espagnolette handles on uPVC are the most popular kind of handle. The spindle passes through the handle to activate the locking mechanism inside the window frame. When the handle is turned it opens the latch on the window and allows it to open. Over time and through regular use, espagnolette handles could become damaged or impaired 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 have a protruding knife that operates a multiple-point locking mechanism inside the window. They are more secure than the espagnolette handles since they only open from the inside. They can be replaced using the same method as espagnolette handles but you should ensure that the new handle has a curved blade as opposed to a flat one.

Once you have selected the right handle, simply align the new handle with existing screw holes before screwing it into place. Then, put the screw covers back on and make sure the new handle is working correctly. This is done by moving the handle from locked position to the unlocked and vice versa a few times. If you have any issues, it might be beneficial to speak with a professional to see if they are able to assist in resolving the issue. They can often advise you on the best way to solve the issue in a fast and efficient way.