UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a broken window handle is a easy process, and, with the right tools, it can be done quite quickly. It is important to know the type of handle and the spindle's length prior to purchasing a replacement.

Older uPVC windows use cockspur handles for windows. They have a spur that protrudes to secure a wedge-shaped cockspur striker plate. These can be either right or left-handed and have to match when replacing.

What kind of lock and handle do I have?

There are a variety of upvc window handles and locks, each having their particular advantages and uses. The type of handle you choose will determine if your locking mechanism is effective and also if it is simple to open windows. With time and regular use, upvc window handles can become damaged or worn out, rendering them less effective and secure. In certain instances, they might even fall off completely. It is important to repair the handles on your window made of upvc as soon as you notice they are falling off. This will help prevent burglaries and will keep your home safe.

It is a good thing that replacing your upvc window handles is a simple task that can be completed by nearly anyone. You'll need a few tools, but with right knowledge, it is an easy task that will take only a couple of minutes. To get started you must identify the type of handle and lock you have on your upvc window to help you identify the best replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most common kind of upvc handle and are typically located on the outside of your window. They are flat in design and feature an opening that is connected to the locking mechanism on the window frame when turned. Inline upvc handles have spindles that run through the center of the handle and then into the frame of the window to activate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and have a distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the frame of the window by only one screw and are less secure than other varieties of window handle.

Tilt and Turn Handles

The tilt and turn handles differ from other handles made of upvc in that they can be rotated for opening the window, and then tilted to the window to let air circulate. They feature a 7mm spindle at the back and are available both in left and right-handed versions.

It is essential to know the spindle size when buying double glazed replacement windows handles made of upvc. Not all of them are exactly the same size. Drop something into the middle of the hole to check the length. This is the maximum spindle size that will fit in your windows.

What is a spindle?

uPVC window handles function similar like doors, turning the handle to operate an internal latch within the frame. The latch opens the window, to allow it to be closed and opened. However, in some cases, handles can be damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. You may need to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they're not able to operate it correctly.

There are many different types of uPVC handles, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed in a variety ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle style uses a different spindle to lock the window mechanism. This is why it is important to identify the kind of handle is installed on your uPVC window so you can get the correct replacement for it.

The base of the handle will tell 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. When you remove this cover and you'll be able to see the screw that holds the base of the handle in position. After both screws are removed then you should be able to take the handle out of the uPVC.

After taking off the uPVC handle, remove it from the locking mechanism. Note the length of the spindle. You'll need to purchase a replacement with the same length as the handle that was originally used and the locking device.

The spindle wears down and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This could be due to corrosion, damage caused by constant use or a loosening locking mechanism. If this occurs, you will need to replace both the window handle and locking mechanism in order to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.

How do I get rid of the old handle?

Through time and regular usage, window handles could become damaged or broken, and when this happens, it is crucial to repair them as quickly as possible to ensure the safety of your home. It is easy to replace a damaged or worn handle. The job can be accomplished in under a minute without the need of special tools.

The first step to remove the handle that was previously used is to take off the screw located at the top of the handle base. Once the screw has been removed, the handle will be pulled away. There is a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle's base, and it is able to be removed too. When both screws are removed the handle can be removed completely from the base portion of the window.

After removing the old handle, align the fixing holes of the new handle with the holes already present in the window frame. There may be a tiny cap or sticker on the new handle, so take them off the caps if needed, and then screw the handle in its place. Once the handle is set, it is important to test whether it functions by turning the handle, and ensuring that the lock mechanism is activated.

Espag handles have an elongated spindle that extends from the handle and slot into a multipoint locking mechanism in the frame of the window. Cadenza windows feature a blade with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have an extended nose that hangs over the frame's outer or the transom bar cross member within the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, slide the spindle inside the window lock and then tighten it down. When the handle is fixed, replace the'snap in' cover and the screw cap (if applicable). The handle is now ready for use to use, so try opening and closing the window a few times to check that it functions correctly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

It's not difficult to change the handle on your windows made of uPVC. The process is very easy. All you require is a screwdriver, and a little bit of patience. The first thing you need to do is to ensure that the handle is locked and then take out any screws that are visible, you can also replace these by screw caps if you need. After you have removed the handle, you'll need to take note of the length of the spindle which extends from the back. This is important because it will determine the kind of handle to purchase.

Espagnolette handles are the most commonly used type of handle used on uPVC windows. They feature a spindle that runs through the handle and operates a locking mechanism inside the window frame. Once the handle is turned it releases the latch on the window and allows it to open. Over time and through regular use, espagnolette handles can be damaged or destroyed which is why it is essential to locate a replacement.

Cadenza handles are another type of uPVC window handle, which is typically used on tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that is operated by a multi-point locking mechanism inside 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 espagnolette handles, however you must make sure that the new handle has a curved blade as opposed to flat ones.

Once you have decided on the correct handle to purchase then you can align the new handle with the existing screw holes and then screw it into place. After that, you should put the screws back on and make sure your new handle is operating properly. This is done by moving the handle from the locked to the unlocked position and vice versa several times. It may be worth contacting an expert to determine how you can fix any problems. They will often be able to guide you on the best approach to solve the issue in a speedy and effective way.