Eldon Smalley asked 7 months ago
UPVC Window Handle Replacement
Replacing a damaged or broken window handle is a easy process, and with the right tools it can be done quickly. It’s important to know the type of handle you have and its spindle size before you purchase the replacement.
Older uPVC window handles have a spur that protrudes and locks on the wedge striker. They can be right-handed or left-handed, and must be compatible when replaced.
What kind of lock and handle do I have?
There are many different types of window handles made of upvc and locks, each with their distinct advantages and functions. The kind of handle you choose will determine how easy it is to open your windows and if the locking mechanism functions as intended. Over time and through regular use, upvc window handles can become damaged or worn out, UPVC Window Handle Replacement making them less effective and secure. In some cases they may even fall completely off. It is crucial to fix your window handles made of upvc immediately if you see they are falling off. This will help prevent potential break-ins and keep your home safe.
It is a good thing that replacing your upvc window handles is a fairly simple job that can be done by almost anyone. You will need a few basic tools, but with the right knowledge, it is simple and should only take a few minutes. To get started, you will need to determine the kind of lock and handle that you have on your window and then to find the ideal replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
These are the most common type of upvc handles and are usually placed on the other side of your window. They are flat and come with an open latch that is connected to the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles feature a spindle running through the middle of the handle and into the window frame to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and feature an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have a single screw that holds the handle to the window frame and aren’t as secure as other types of window handles.
Tilt and Turn Handles
In contrast to other handles made of upvc the tilt and UPVC Window Handle Replacement turn handles can be turned to open the window and tilted inwards for ventilation. They feature a 7mm spindle in the back and are available in right-hand and left-hand versions.
When you are purchasing replacement window handle handles for upvc, it is important to verify the length of the spindle since not all of them are the same size. Drop something in the middle of the hole to test the length. This is the maximum spindle size that will fit your windows.
What is the spindle?
uPVC window handles operate similarly like doors, turning the handle to operate an opening inside the frame. The window can then be opened and shut. However, in some cases, handles can be damaged, especially if they are regularly used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. You may have to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they are not operating correctly.
There are several different types of uPVC handles to choose from, comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. These handles are designed to fit into the uPVC frames in various ways and each handle type uses a specific spindle to lock the mechanism fitted to the window. This is why it is crucial to identify the kind of handle you have on your uPVC window to get the correct replacement.
You can check what type of uPVC handle you have by looking at the base section of your handle. There should be a “snap in cover’ over one screw which holds the handle base in place. Remove this and then you should be able see the second screw on the opposite side of the base section of the handle. After both screws are removed, you should be able pull the handle from the uPVC.
Once you have removed the uPVC window handle, you have to carefully remove the spindle you have removed from the locking mechanism. Be sure to note the length of the spindle as you’ll need to ensure that you buy a replacement that has the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.
The spindle wears down and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This could be due to wear and tear from continuous use, a loosening of the locking mechanism, or even rust over time. 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 remove the handle that was previously attached?
Window handles are susceptible to being damaged or broken over time. It is crucial to fix them as soon a possible to ensure your security. Fortunately, replacing a worn or damaged handle is a fairly simple task that can be completed in less than an hour and doesn’t require any specialist tools.
To remove the old handle, you first need to remove the screw at the base of the handle. Once the screw has been removed, the handle can be pulled away. A second screw will be located at the base of the handle. This too can be removed. When both screws are removed, the handle can be removed from the base of the window.
After removing the old handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle with the existing holes in the window frame. If there is a sticker or cap on the new handle, take it off it if required and screw the handle into the appropriate position. It is important to check whether the handle functions after it is put in place. Turn the handle and make sure that the lock mechanism is activated.
Espag handles come with an extra spindle that is protruding from the handle and slot into a multipoint locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. Cadenza windows have a blade with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism, while Cockspur handles have a long nose that hooks over either the outer frame or transom bar cross member in the window.
Once you have the new handle in place, slide 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 is fixed. When the handle is ready for use, you can open and close the window a few times to ensure it works correctly and securely.
How do I install the new handle?
It’s not that difficult to change the handle on your uPVC windows. The procedure is easy. All you need is a screwdriver, and a bit of perseverance. The first thing you need to do is make sure that the handle you have previously used is locked and then remove any screws that are visible, you can also replace them by screw caps if you need. After removing the handle you’ll need to record the length of the spindle that extends from the back. This is vital because it will determine the kind of handle you will need to buy.
Espagnolette handles are the most commonly used kind of handle that is used on uPVC windows. They have a spindle that is connected to the handle, and is responsible for a locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. The handle releases the latch, allowing the window to open. Over time and through regular use, espagnolette handles may be damaged or destroyed and it is necessary to find an alternative.
Cadenza handles are a different kind of uPVC window handle commonly used on tilt and turn windows. They have an elongated blade that functions as an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within the window. They are more secure than an espagnolette handle as they can only open from the inside. They can be replaced by the same method as espagnolette handles however you must ensure that the new handle has a curved blade instead of one that is flat.
After you have chosen the correct handle, you can align the new handle with existing screw holes before screwing it into place. Then, put the screws on and test the new handle. You can do this by dragging the handle between the locked position to the unlocked a few time. If you have any issues, it may be beneficial to speak with a professional to determine if they can help resolve the problem. They are often able to advise you on the best solution to solve the issue in a speedy and efficient way.