25 Surprising Facts About Upvc Window Handle Replacement

UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It's easy to repair a broken window handle with the right tools. It is important to know the type of handle and its spindle's length prior to purchasing a replacement.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur which protrudes and locks on the wedge striker for cockspur. They can be right-handed or left-handed and must be matched when replacing.

What kind of lock and handle do I need?

There are a variety of windows locks and handles made of upvc, each with its distinct advantages and functions. The type of handle you choose will determine if your locking mechanism is effective and if it is easy to open the windows. Over time and through regular use, window handles made of upvc can become damaged or worn out, rendering them less secure and effective. In some cases they could even be completely removed. It is important to repair your window handles made of upvc as soon as you notice them falling off. This will help prevent burglaries, and keep your house secure.

It's an easy task that virtually anyone can perform. You'll require a few tools, but with the appropriate knowledge, it's an easy task that will only take a few minutes. You will need to be aware of the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will help you choose the correct replacement handles for upvc windows.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most commonly used kind of upvc handle and are usually located 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 turned. Inline upvc handles feature an elongated spindle that runs through middle of the handle and into the window frame to control the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are usually found on older uPVC windows and feature a distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are fitted with a single screw that is used to secure the handle to the frame of the window and are not as secure as other kinds of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

Unlike the other handles made of upvc the tilt and turn handles can be rotated to open the window and the handle can be tilted to the side to allow ventilation. They have a 7mm spindle on the back and are available both in right-hand and left-hand versions.

When purchasing replacement handles made of upvc It is crucial to check the spindle length because not all handles are the same size. To test the length of your handle made of upvc, simply drop something in the middle of the hole and then measure the distance it travels before meeting an obstruction. This is the maximum spindle length that will be suitable for your window.

What is spindles?

uPVC window handles function in a similar way to doors, UPVC Window Handle Replacement by turning the handle to activate an internal latch within the frame. This unlocks the window so it can be shut and opened. However, sometimes handles can be damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to extreme weather conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC windows handles as they might not be able to operate the window in a proper manner for a long time.

There are several different types of uPVC handles to choose from, comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handles. These handles 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 fitted into the window. This is why it is important to identify the kind of handle you have installed on your uPVC window so you can find the right replacement for it.

You can determine the type of uPVC handle you have by taking a look at the base of your handle. There should be a "snap in cover' over one screw which holds the handle base in place. When you remove this cover, you will be able see the second screw that holds the handle base in position. After both screws have been 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 a replacement handles for upvc windows that has the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.

The main issue with most window handle problems with uPVC is that the spindle becomes worn out and cannot longer work with the locking mechanism. This could be due to wear and tear from continuous use or loosening of the locking mechanism or even rust over time. If this occurs, it is required to replace the window handle and locking mechanism to restore complete functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I take off the handle from the previous one?

Through time and regular use, window handles may 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. Fortunately, replacing a damaged or worn handle is a relatively simple task that can be carried out in just over an hour and doesn't require any specialized tools.

To remove the old handle, you first need to remove the screw located at the bottom of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle can be removed. There is a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle's base and it is able to be removed as well. After these two screws have been removed, the handle will be removed from the base 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. If there is a sticker or cap on the new handle, remove it if necessary and then put the handle back in the appropriate position. Once the handle is in place it is crucial to verify whether it functions by turning the handle and ensuring that the lock mechanism is activated.

Espag handles have an extra spindle that is protruding from the handle and slot into a multipoint locking mechanism within the window frame. Cadenza windows come with a blade with cutouts that are incorporated into the lock mechanism. Cockspur handles are long and hang over the frame of the window or the transom bar crossmember.

Once you have the new handle in place, slide the spindle inside the lock in the window and then tighten it. Once the handle is firmly fixated then replace the snap-in cover and the screw cap (if appropriate). Now that the handle is in use, open and close the window a couple of times to ensure it works properly and securely.

How do I fit the new handle?

It's not that difficult to change the handle on your Upvc windows. The process is very simple. All you need is a screwdriver and a little bit of patience. First, make sure the handle that you are replacing is unlocked. Then remove any screws that are visible. You can also replace them using screw caps. Once the handle is removed it is necessary to take an outline of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is important because it will determine the type of handle you need to buy.

Espagnolette handles made of uPVC are the most well-known type of handle. They feature a spindle that is inserted into the handle and operates a locking mechanism inside the window frame. The handle opens the latch and allows the window to open. As time passes and with regular use, espagnolette handles can become damaged or impaired, making it necessary to find replacements.

Cadenza handles are a different kind of uPVC window handle commonly used on tilt and turn windows. They have an extended blade that works the multipoint locking mechanism inside the window. They are generally more secure than espagnolette handles as they can only be opened from the inside. You can replace them with the same method as you would with espagnolette handles, but make sure the new handle is angled and not flat.

After you have chosen the correct handle, simply align the new handle with the existing screw holes prior to screwing it into place. Then, you should put the screws on and test the new handle. You can perform this by dragging the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked a few time. It may be worth contacting an expert to see if you can resolve any issues. They can provide advice on how to solve the issue in a timely and efficient way.