UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a broken window handle is a relatively easy task and with the right tools it can be done quite quickly. It is essential to know the type of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before you purchase an alternative.

Older uPVC windows use cockspur handles for windows. They have spurs that protrude to the lock of a wedge cockspur striker plate. They can be right-handed or left-handed and must match when replaced.

What type of lock or handle do I have?

There are many different types of upvc window handles and locks, each with their own benefits and purposes. The type of handle you have will determine if your locking mechanism is effective and if it is easy to open the windows. With time and regular use, the upvc handles on your windows may be damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some instances, they may even fall off completely. It is crucial to fix your window handles made of upvc as soon as you see they are falling off. This will stop possible burglaries, and keep your house secure.

It is a good thing that replacing your window handles made of plastic is a relatively simple task that is achievable by everyone. With just a few tools and the right knowledge, this is a simple procedure that shouldn't take more than a couple minutes. To get started, you will need to determine the type of handle and lock you have on your window and then to find the ideal replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are the most popular kind of upvc handle and are usually located on the side of your window. They have a flat design and feature a latch that connects to the locking mechanism on the window frame when it is turned. Inline upvc handles have a spindle that runs through the center of the handle and into the frame of the window to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames. They have a distinctive, hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have a single screw that secures the handle to the frame of the window and aren't as secure as other kinds of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

In contrast to 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 at the back of the handle and are available in both left and right-handed versions.

When you are purchasing replacement handles for upvc it is essential to verify the length of the spindle as not all are identical in size. To test the length of your upvc handle simply drop something in the middle of the hole and measure the distance it travels before it comes into contact with an obstruction. This is the longest spindle length that will be suitable for your window.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles operate in a similar way to doors, by turning the handle to open a latch inside the frame. This unlocks the window so that it can be opened and closed. The handles could be damaged, especially if often used or are subjected to harsh conditions. This can lead to the need to replace your uPVC windows handles as they might not be able to operate the window in a proper manner in the future.

There are a variety of uPVC handles to choose from, including Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handles. These handles are designed to fit into the uPVC frames in various ways, and each type of handle has a particular spindle that is used to lock the mechanism into the window. It is crucial to know the type of handle installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with the correct one.

The base section 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 base in place. Take it off and you should be able to see the second screw located at the opposite end of the base section of the handle. Once both screws are removed you should be in a position to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

After you have removed the uPVC handle, carefully unscrew it from the locking mechanism. Note the length of the spindle. You will need to purchase a replacement handles for upvc windows with the same length as the original handle and locking device.

The spindle wears down and cannot operate the locking mechanism. This can be due to damage from constant use, a loosening of the locking mechanism or even corrosion over time. If this happens, it will be necessary to replace the window handle and the locking mechanism to restore complete functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I take off the old handle?

In the course of time and daily usage, window handles could be damaged or destroyed, and if this happens, it is important to repair them as quickly as possible to ensure the safety of your home. The good news is that replacing a worn or damaged handle is a easy task that can be completed in less than one minute and doesn't require any specialist tools.

To take off the handle, you first need to remove the screw at the bottom of the handle. Once this is removed the handle can be removed from the base section. There is a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle base, and it can be removed too. Once the two screws are removed, the handle will be detached from the base of the window.

After removing the old handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle with the holes already present 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 essential to ensure whether the handle functions after it is put in place. Turn the handle over and make sure the lock mechanism is in place.

Espag handles come with an elongated spindle that extends from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism in the window frame. Cadenza windows have a blade with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism, while Cockspur handles have a long nose that is able to hook over the frame's outer or transom bar cross-member within the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, insert the spindle into the window lock and then tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if necessary) once the handle is fixed. Now that the handle is ready for use, you can open and close the window a couple of times to make sure that it functions properly and securely.

How do I put in the new handle?

Changing your uPVC window handle isn't difficult and the process is actually very simple. All you need is an screwdriver and a little bit of patience. First, make sure the handle is not locked. Then, remove any visible screws. You can also replace them with screw caps. After the handle has been removed, you need to make an outline of the length of the spindle that extends from the back of the handle. This is important as it will determine the type of handle that you will need to buy.

Espagnolette handles are the most commonly used kind of handle that is used on uPVC windows. They feature 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 and allows the window to open. Over time and through regular use, espagnolette handles could be damaged or damaged which is why it is essential to find a replacement double glazing window.

Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is typically employed with tilt and turn windows. They feature an elongated blade that functions as an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within the window. They are more secure than espagnolette handles because they are able to open from the inside. They can be replaced using the same method as you would with espagnolette handles, but make sure the new handle is not angled and flat.

After you have picked the correct handle, simply align the new handle with existing screw holes prior to screwing it into place. Then, put the screw covers back on and test that the new handle is working correctly. You can perform this by dragging the handle between the locked position to the unlocked one several times. If you experience any issues, it could be worthwhile contacting a professional to see if they can assist you in solving the issue. They can often advise you on the best solution to resolve the issue in a fast and effective way.