UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a broken window handle is a relatively easy process, and, with the right tools, it can be accomplished quite quickly. It is important to identify the kind of handle you have and the spindle's size before purchasing an alternative.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur which protrudes and locks on a cockspur wedge striker. These can be right-handed or left-handed, and must match when replaced.

What type of lock or handle do you have? I have

There are a variety of windows locks and handles made of upvc each with their distinct advantages and functions. The type of handle that you own will determine if your locking mechanism is efficient and if it is easy to open the windows. With time and regular use, upvc window handles can become damaged or worn out, making them less secure and efficient. In some cases they might even be completely removed. It is important to repair the handles on your window made of upvc immediately if you begin to notice they are falling off. This will prevent possible break-ins and will keep your home safe.

It's a simple job that anyone can complete. You'll require a few tools, but with the proper knowledge, it's simple and should take only a couple of minutes. You must know the kind of lock or handle you have on your window. This will help you select the correct replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most commonly used kind of upvc handle and are usually placed on the side of your window. They are flat and have an open latch that is connected to the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles come with a spindle running through the middle of the handle into the window frame in order to control the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are usually found on older uPVC windows and feature an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the frame of the window with only one screw and are less secure than other kinds of window handles.

Handles that can tilt and window turn

The tilt and turn handles are different from other handles made of upvc in that they can be turned for opening the window, and then tilted into the window to allow air circulation. They have a 7mm spindle in the back and are available in right and left-handed versions.

It is crucial to determine the spindle size when buying replacement handles for windows handles made of upvc. Not all are exactly the same size. Drop something in the middle of the hole to test the length. This is the maximum size of spindle that will fit into your windows.

What is a spindle?

uPVC window handles work similar to doors, by turning the handle to activate an internal latch within the frame. The window then opens and shut. The handles could be damaged, particularly if they're frequently used or exposed to harsh conditions. This can lead to the need to replace your uPVC windows handles as they might not operate the window correctly for a long time.

There are many different types of uPVC handles, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are made in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle type utilizes an individual spindle to lock the window mechanism. This is why it is important to identify the kind of handle is installed on your uPVC window to get the correct replacement.

You can check what type of uPVC handle you are using by looking at the base section of your handle. A snap-in cover should be over the screw that holds the handle's base in place. Once you remove this you will be able to observe the second screw that holds the base of the handle in place. After both screws have been removed, you should be in a position to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

After taking off the uPVC handle, carefully unscrew it from the locking mechanism. Take note of the length of the spindle. You'll need purchase a replacement with the same length as the original handle and locking device.

The spindle wears down and becomes inoperable with the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage from continuous use, or even an unreliable locking mechanism. If this occurs, you will have to replace both the window handle and window the locking mechanism to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.

How do I remove the handle from the previous one?

In the course of time and daily use, window handles may be damaged or destroyed, and when this happens, it is crucial to repair them as soon as possible to ensure the security of your home. It is good to know that replacing a worn or damaged handle is a simple task that can be completed in less than one minute and doesn't require any specialist tools.

The first step in removing the handle that was previously used is to take off the screw situated at the top of the base of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle will be pulled away from the base. There is a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle base, and this can 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 and align the fixing holes of the new handle with the holes that are already in the window frame. There may be a little sticker or caps on the new handle, so take off these if necessary and then screw the handle in the frame. Once the handle is in place it is important to test that it is working by turning the handle and making sure that the lock mechanism activates.

Espag handles come with spindles that extend out of the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism on the frame of the window. Cadenza windows come with an edge with cut-outs which slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have an extended nose that hangs over either the frame's outer or transom bar cross-member inside the window.

After you have put in the new handle, insert the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if applicable) after the handle is fixed. The handle is now ready to use, so try opening and closing the window several times to check that it is working properly and securely.

How do I fit the new handle?

Switching your uPVC window handle isn't a big deal and the process is simple. All you need is a screwdriver and a small amount of patience. The first thing to do is ensure that the handle is not locked and then remove any screws that are visible, you can also replace them with screw caps if needed. After the handle has been removed it is necessary to take an note of the length of the spindle which protrudes from the back of the handle. This is important as it will determine the type of handle you'll require to purchase.

Espagnolette handles that are made of uPVC are the most popular kind of handle. The spindle passes through the handle to activate the locking mechanism within the window frame. Once the handle is turned it opens the latch on the window, allowing it to open. As time passes and with regular use, espagnolette handles may become damaged or impaired, making it necessary to locate an alternative.

Cadenza handles are a form of uPVC handle that is typically employed with tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that operates an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within the window. They are generally more secure than espagnolette handles as they can only be opened from the inside. You can replace them using the same method that you would do for handles made of espagnolette however, ensure that the new handle is angled and not flat.

Once you have determined the correct handle to purchase then you can place the new handle with the screw holes, and then screw it in the appropriate position. After that, you should put the screws back on and test that the new handle functions correctly. This is done by shifting the handle from the locked position to the unlocked and the reverse direction several times. It may be worth contacting an expert to determine if you can resolve any issues. They can advise you on how to solve the issue in a timely and effective way.