The 10 Scariest Things About Upvc Window Handle Replacement

UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It is easy to repair a broken window handle with the right tools. It is important to know your type of handle and its spindle length before buying an alternative.

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

What type of lock and handle do I have?

There are a myriad of upvc window locks and handles each with its particular advantages and uses. The type of handle you are using will determine how easy it is to open your windows and if the locking mechanism works as intended. With time and regular use, the upvc handles on your double glazed windows replacement could get worn out and damaged. This makes them less secure and effective. In some cases they may even fall off completely. If you find that your window handles have been removed, it's important to repair them as quickly as you can. This will help stop potential burglaries and ensure your home is secure.

It's a task that virtually anyone can perform. You will need some basic tools, but with the right knowledge, it is an easy task that will only take a couple of minutes. To get started you'll need to identify the type of handle and lock you have on your window and then to find the ideal replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are typically found on the sides of the window. They have a flat design and come with an opening that is connected to the locking mechanism on the window frame when it is turned. Inline upvc handles have a spindle running through the middle of the handle to the window frame in order to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames and feature a distinctive, hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the window frame by a single screw and are less secure than other types of window handle.

Tilt and Turn Handles

Unlike the other handles made of upvc, tilt and turn handles can both be rotated to open the window and turned inwards to allow for ventilation. They have a 7mm spindle at the back and are available both in left and right-handed versions.

It is important to measure the size of the spindle when purchasing a new upvc handles. There are a few that are exactly 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 how far down it goes before meeting an obstruction. This is the length of the spindle that will fit your window.

What is spindles?

uPVC window handles function in a similar way like doors. By turning the handle, you will be able to activate a latch inside the frame. This opens the window so it can be closed and opened. However, in some cases, handles can be damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to extreme weather conditions. It is possible to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they're not functioning properly.

There are several different types of uPVC handles to choose from, comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. They are designed to fit inside the uPVC frames in various ways, and each type of handle uses a specific spindle to lock the mechanism fitted into the window. It is essential to determine the kind of handle that is installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with the right one.

You can check what type of uPVC handle you have by inspecting the base of your handle. A snap-in cover should be over the screw that holds the base of the handle in position. Take it off and you should be able see the second screw located at the opposite end of the base section of the handle. After both screws are removed you should be capable of pulling the handle away from the uPVC window.

Once you have removed the uPVC window handle, you will need to carefully remove the spindle that was previously attached to the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle since you'll need to make sure that you purchase one that is the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.

The main issue with most window handle problems with uPVC is that the handle spindle gets worn-out and is unable to longer function properly with the locking mechanism. This could be due to damage caused by constant use or loosening of the locking mechanism, UPVC Window Handle Replacement or even corrosion that occurs over time. If this happens, it is required to replace the window handle and the locking mechanism to restore full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I get rid of my old handle?

Window handles are susceptible to being damaged or even broken over the course of time. It is crucial to fix them as soon as possible to ensure your safety. 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 to remove the old handle is to remove the screw located on the top of the handle base. After the screw is removed, the handle can be removed. There will be a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle base, and it can be removed too. When both screws are removed, the handle can be completely detached from the base portion of the window.

Once the old handle has been removed, you can take the new handle and align the fixing holes with the holes currently in the window frame. There may be a little sticker or caps on the new handle, so remove these if necessary and then screw the handle into place. Once the handle is set, it is important to test that it works by turning the handle and UPVC Window Handle Replacement making sure that the lock mechanism activates.

Espag handles come with a spindle which protrudes from the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism of the frame of the window. Cadenza windows feature a blade with cutouts that are incorporated into the lock mechanism. Cockspur handles are long and are hung over the outer frame of the window or the transom crossmember of the bar.

Once you have the new handle in place, you can insert the spindle into the lock inside the window and then tighten it down. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if appropriate) after the handle has been firmly fixed. The handle is now ready to use by opening and closing the window a few times to check that it functions properly and securely.

How do I put in the new handle?

It's not difficult to change the handle on your uPVC windows. The process is easy. You only need a screwdriver, and a bit of perseverance. The first thing to do is ensure that the old handle is in the unlocked position and then take out any screws that are visible, you can replace them with screw caps if needed. Once the handle is removed, you need to make an outline of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial since it will determine the type of handle that you will need to purchase.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle for uPVC windows. They feature a spindle that is connected to the handle, and is responsible for a locking mechanism inside the window frame. The handle releases the latch and allows the window to open. When used regularly and over time, handles for espagnolette may be damaged.

Cadenza handles are a different kind of uPVC window handle commonly used on tilt and turn windows. They feature an extended blade that works a multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are more secure than espagnolette handle as they can only open from the inside. They can be replaced with the same procedure as espagnolette handles, however you will need to make sure that the new handle has a curved blade, as opposed to a flat one.

After you have chosen the correct handle, you can align the new handle with existing screw holes prior to screwing it in place. Then, you should put the screw covers on and test your new handle. You can accomplish this by moving the handle between the locked position to the unlocked one several times. If you experience any issues, it could be worth contacting a specialist to see if they can help resolve the problem. They can provide advice on how to fix the issue in a timely and effective way.