UPVC Window Handle Replacement
It is easy to repair a broken window handle using the appropriate tools. It’s important to know the type of handle you have and the spindle’s size before purchasing a replacement.
Older uPVC window handles have a spur which extends and is locked over a cockspur wedge striker. These can be either right or left-handed and have to be matched when replacing.
What type of lock and handle do I have?
There are many window locks and handles made from upvc each with its own advantages and purposes. The type of handle that you choose will determine whether or not your locking mechanism is effective and if it’s easy to open the windows. With time and regular use, window handles made of upvc can become damaged or worn out, rendering them less secure and efficient. In some instances they might even disappear completely. It is essential to fix the handles on your window made of upvc immediately if you begin to notice them falling off. This will help stop potential burglaries and protect your home from burglary.
The good news is that replacing your window handles made of upvc is a relatively simple task that is achievable by everyone. You will need a few tools, but with appropriate knowledge, it’s a straightforward process that should only take a few minutes. You must know the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will allow you to choose the correct replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
These are the most commonly used type of upvc handles and are typically located on the other side of your window. They are flat and come with a latch which engages the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles also have a spindle that goes through the center of the handle and then into the frame of the window to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and have an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the window frame by a single screw and are less secure than other varieties of window handle.
Handles that tilt and turn
As opposed to the other handles made of upvc the tilt and turn handles can both be rotated to open the window and turned inwards to allow for ventilation. They typically have a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle and UPVC Window Handle Replacement are available in left and right-handed versions.
When purchasing replacement handles for windows handles made of upvc it is essential to verify the length of the spindle as not all are the same size. Drop something in 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 function similarly as doors. By turning the handle, you can operate a latch within the frame. The window then opens and closed. However, in some cases, handles can be damaged, particularly if they are regularly used or exposed to extreme weather conditions. You may have to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they are not functioning properly.
There are many different kinds of uPVC handles to choose from, comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. They are designed to fit in the uPVC frames in a variety of ways and each handle type uses a specific spindle to lock the mechanism to the window. This is why it is essential to identify the kind of handle is installed on your uPVC window so you can get the correct replacement for it.
You can determine the type of uPVC handle you are using by taking a look at the base of the handle. A snap-in covers should be over the screw that holds the base of the handle in place. Once you remove this, you will be able see the second screw that holds the handle base in position. After both screws are removed you should be capable of pulling the handle away from the uPVC window.
After you have removed the uPVC handle, remove it from the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle since you’ll need to make sure that you buy a replacement 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 handle spindle gets worn out and cannot longer function properly with the locking mechanism. This could be due damage caused by constant use or a loosening of the locking mechanism, or even corrosion over time. If this occurs, it is required to replace the window handle and the locking mechanism to restore complete functionality to your uPVC windows.
How do I take off the handle that was previously attached?
In the course of time and daily use, window handles may become damaged or broken, and when this happens, it is crucial to repair them as soon as you can to ensure the security of your home. It is easy to replace a damaged or worn handle. The job can be completed in under one minute without the need for any special tools.
To take off the handle, you must first remove the screw located at the bottom of the handle. Once this is removed the handle can then be removed from the base section. There will be another screw located at the bottom of the handle base, and it is able to be removed too. After these two screws are removed, the handle can be removed from the base of the window.
After removing the old handle and align the fixing holes of the new handle with the holes that are already in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle, take it off it if necessary and then put the handle back in place. Once the handle is in place, it is essential to check that it is working by turning the handle and ensuring that the lock mechanism is activated.
Espag handles feature spindles that extend out of the handle and UPVC Window Handle Replacement slot into the multipoint locking mechanism of the frame of the window. Cadenza windows come with a blade with cutouts which fit into the lock mechanism. Cockspur handles are long and hook over the frame of the window or the transom bar crossmember.
Once you have the new handle in place, you can insert the spindle into the lock in the window and then tighten it down. When the handle is fixated and secured, replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if necessary). Now that the handle is ready for use, open and close the window a few times to ensure it works properly and securely.
How do I fit the new handle?
Switching your uPVC window handle isn’t a big deal and the process is actually very simple. All you need is a screwdriver and small amount of patience. The first thing you need to do is to ensure that the handle is locked and then remove any screws that are visible. you can also replace them with screw caps if needed. After removing the handle 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 that you will need to purchase.
Espagnolette handles are the most commonly used type of handle for uPVC windows. They have a spindle which is connected to the handle and acts as an internal locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle opens the latch, allowing the window to open. During regular use and time, espagnolette handles may be damaged.
Cadenza handles are a form of uPVC handle that is usually employed with tilt and turn windows. They have a protruding blade that operates an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within 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 that you would for espagnolette handles however, make sure that the new handle is angled, not flat.
After you have picked the correct handle, you can align the new handle to existing screw holes before screwing it in place. Then, put the screw covers back on and verify that the new handle is working correctly. This is done by moving the handle from the locked position to the unlocked and then back to the locked position several times. It may be worth contacting an expert to determine how you can fix any issues. They will often be able to guide you on the best solution to solve the issue in a speedy and effective manner.