Upvc Window Handle Replacement: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a broken window handle is a easy task and, with the right tools, it can be done quickly. It is essential to know the type of handle you have and its spindle size before you purchase a replacement.

Older uPVC windows have cockspur handles for windows. They have spurs that protrude 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 different types of window handles made from upvc and locks, each with their distinct advantages and functions. The type of handle you have will determine how easy it is to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism works as intended. As time passes and with regular use, upvc window handles can become damaged or worn out, rendering them less secure and effective. In some cases they might even fall off completely. If you notice that your upvc window handles have been removed, it's crucial to repair them as quickly as possible. This will help prevent burglaries and ensure that your home is safe.

The good news is that replacing your window handles made of plastic is a fairly simple job that can be done by almost anyone. You'll need a few tools, but with the proper knowledge, it's simple and should only take a couple of minutes. You must be aware of the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will help you select the correct glass replacement windows.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most common kind of upvc handle and are usually placed on the side 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 feature a spindle that runs through the middle of the handle into the window frame to control the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames and have distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles have a single screw that is used to secure the handle to the frame and are not as secure as other kinds of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

Unlike the other upvc handles the tilt and turn handles can be rotated to open the windows and tilted inwards to allow ventilation. They feature a 7mm spindle on the back and are available in right-hand and left-hand versions.

It is important to measure the spindle size when buying replacement handles made of upvc. There are a few that are exactly the same size. Drop something into the middle of the hole to test the length. This is the maximum spindle size that will fit in your windows.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles work in a similar way to doors, by turning the handle to open a latch inside the frame. The latch opens the window, so it can be closed and opened. But, at times, the handles may become damaged, particularly when they are used frequently or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC windows handles as they may not operate the window correctly in the future.

There are many different kinds of uPVC handles that are available, including Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handles. They are designed in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle style uses an entirely different spindle for locking the window mechanism. This is why it is essential to know the type of handle you have on your uPVC window to get the correct replacement.

You can find out what kind of uPVC handle you have by looking at the base section of your handle. A snap-in cover is over the screw that holds the handle's base in position. When you remove this cover you will be able to see the screw that holds the base of the handle in place. Once both screws are removed you should be capable of pulling the handle away from the uPVC window.

After taking off the uPVC handle, carefully unscrew it from the locking mechanism. Be sure to note the length of the spindle as you will need to ensure that you buy a replacement that has the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.

The spindle wears down and cannot operate the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage due to continuous use, or even an unreliable locking mechanism. If this occurs, it is required to replace the window handle as well as the locking mechanism to restore full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I take off the old handle?

Window handles can become damaged or destroyed over time. It is essential to fix them as quickly a possible to ensure your security. It is good to know that replacing a worn or damaged handle is a fairly easy task that can be accomplished in less than one minute and doesn't require any specialist tools.

To take off the handle, first remove the screw at the bottom of the handle. After the screw is removed, the handle can be pulled away. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle's base, and it is able to be removed as well. After both screws are removed, the handle can be completely detached from the base section of the window.

After removing the handle and align the fixing holes of the new handle to the holes already present in the window frame. There might be a small sticker or caps on the new handle, so remove the caps if needed, and then put the handle in its place. It is crucial to verify that the handle works once it has been installed. Turn the handle and ensure that the lock mechanism is in place.

Espag handles have a spindle that protrudes from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism within the window frame. Cadenza windows have a blade with cutouts which fit into the lock mechanism. Cockspur handles are long and are hung over the frame that surrounds the window or the transom bar crossmember.

Once you have installed the new handle, place the spindle into 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 for use, so try opening and closing the window several times to check that it functions properly and upvc Window handle replacement securely.

How do I install the new handle?

The process of changing your window handle made of uPVC isn't difficult, and the process is actually very simple. You only need a screwdriver, and a bit of patience. The first step is ensure that the old handle is locked and then remove any screws that are visible. you can also replace them with screw caps if required. After the handle has been removed it is necessary to take a note of the length of the spindle which protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial as it will determine the type of handle you'll need to buy.

Espagnolette handles are the most common type of handle used on uPVC windows. They have a spindle which is inserted into the handle and operates a locking mechanism inside the window frame. When the handle is turned it releases the latch on the window, allowing it to open. When used regularly and time, handles for espagnolette may become damaged.

Cadenza handles are a type of uPVC handle that is usually used in tilt and turn windows. They have an elongated blade that functions as an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within the window. They are generally more secure than espagnolette handles as they are only accessible from the inside. They can be replaced with the same procedure as espagnolette handles but you must ensure that the new handle has an angled blade instead of flat ones.

Once you have determined the right handle for you, you can simply place the new handle with the existing screw holes, and then screw it into place. After that, you should put the screws back on and verify that your new handle is operating correctly. This is done by moving the handle from the locked position to the unlocked and then back to the locked position a few times. It may be worth contacting an expert to determine whether you can solve any issues. They can advise you on how to resolve the problem in a timely and effective way.