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

UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It is easy to repair a damaged window handle using the appropriate tools. It is essential to know the type of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before you purchase the replacement.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur that extends and is locked over the cockspur wedge striker. These can be either left or right-handed and need to match when replacing.

What type of lock and handle do I have?

There are many windows locks and handles made of upvc, each with its 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 functions according to the plan. As time passes and with regular use, window replacement handles made of upvc can become damaged or worn out, making them less effective and secure. In some cases they may even fall off completely. If you find that your window handles have fallen off, it's crucial to fix them as soon as possible. This will prevent possible break-ins and will keep your home secure.

Luckily, replacing your upvc window handles is a fairly simple job that can be done by nearly anyone. With just a few tools and the right information it's a simple procedure that shouldn't take less than a few minutes. You will need to know the kind of lock or handle you have on your window. This will help you select the right replacement window glass.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

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

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames and have an unusual hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the frame of the window by only one screw and are less secure than other kinds of window handle.

Handles that tilt and turn

The tilt and turn handles differ from other upvc handles because they can be turned to open the window and then tilted into the window to ventilate. They feature a 7mm spindle on the back and are available both in left and right-handed versions.

When purchasing replacement handles made of upvc it is essential to check the spindle length as not all are the same size. To test the length of your upvc handle simply drop something in the middle of the hole, and then measure how far down it goes before meeting an obstruction. This is the largest spindle size that will fit into your windows.

What is a spindle?

uPVC window handles work similar like doors, turning the handle to activate a latch inside the frame. The window is then opened and shut. However, sometimes these handles can become damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. You may have to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they are not functioning properly.

There are many different types of uPVC handle options, including Espag, Cockspur, and Window Handle Replacement Spaded handles. They are designed to fit into the uPVC frames in various ways. Each handle utilizes a specific spindle to lock the mechanism fitted 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 the right one.

The base section of the handle will inform you what type of uPVC it is. There should be a "snap in cover' over one screw that holds the handle's base in place. After removing this 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 able to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

After taking off the uPVC handle, carefully remove it from the locking mechanism. Take careful note of the length of the spindle, as you'll need to ensure that you purchase one that is the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.

The spindle wears out and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This could be due to damage caused by constant use or loosening of the locking mechanism, or even corrosion over time. When this happens it is necessary to replace the window handle as well as the locking mechanism to restore the full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I remove the old handle?

Through time and regular use, window handles may become damaged or broken and if this happens it is crucial to repair them as soon as you can to ensure the security of your home. It is simple to replace a damaged or worn handle. The task can be accomplished in less than an hour without the need for any special tools.

The first step in removing the old handle is to remove the screw that is situated on the top of the handle base. Once the screw has been removed, the handle will be removed. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle base, and this can be removed too. After these two screws are removed, the handle can be removed from the window's base.

After the handle has been removed, you can take the new handle and align the fixing holes with the holes that are 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 essential to ensure that the handle works once it is put in place. Turn the handle over and ensure that the lock mechanism is working.

Espag handles come with an elongated spindle that extends from the handle and slot into a multipoint locking mechanism within the frame of the window. Cadenza windows come with blades with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have a long nose that is able to hook over either the outer frame or the transom bar cross member in the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, you can insert the spindle into the lock in the window and then tighten it. Once the handle is firmly fixed, replace the'snap in' cover and screw cap (if necessary). The handle is now ready to use, so try opening and closing the window a few times to make sure that it works properly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

Changing your uPVC window handle isn't difficult and the process is actually very simple. All you require is a screwdriver and little bit of patience. First, make sure the old handle is unlocked. Then remove any visible screws. You could also replace them with screw caps. After removing the handle, you'll need to record the length of the spindle that extends from the back. This is crucial since it will determine the type of handle you'll require to purchase.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle used on uPVC windows. They feature a spindle that is connected to the handle, and is responsible for a locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. The handle opens the latch, allowing the window to open. In regular use and over time, handles made of espagnolette can become damaged.

Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is commonly employed with tilt and turn windows. They have a protruding blade that operates a multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are more secure than an espagnolette handles since they only open from the inside. They can be replaced using the same method as you would for espagnolette handles however, make sure that the new handle is angled, not flat.

Once you have selected the correct handle, you can align the new handle with the existing screw holes before screwing it into place. After that, you should put the screws back on and make sure your new handle is operating correctly. You can perform this by dragging the handle between the locked position to the unlocked one several times. If you encounter any issues, it may be beneficial to speak with a professional to see if they can assist you in solving the issue. They can advise you on how to solve the problem in a timely and effective way.