UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It's easy to repair a broken window handle using the appropriate tools. It is important to know what kind of handle you have and its spindle size before purchasing an alternative.

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 left or right-handed and need to be matched when replacing.

What type of lock and handle do I have?

There are a variety of window handles made of upvc and locks, each having their particular advantages and uses. The kind of handle you choose will determine the ease to open your windows and if the locking mechanism works as intended. Over time, and with regular use, the upvc handles on your windows can become damaged and Window Handle Replacement worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some cases they may even fall off completely. If you find that your window handles have been removed, it's crucial to fix them as soon as you can. This will help prevent burglaries, and keep your house secure.

Luckily, replacing your upvc window handles is a simple task that can be completed by everyone. With a few basic tools and the right information it's a simple process that shouldn't take longer than a couple of minutes. It is important to be aware of the type of handle or lock that you have on your window. This will help you select the correct replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most common type of upvc handles and are usually placed on the outside of your window. They are flat in design and feature a latch that engages with the locking mechanism of the frame of the window when it is turned. Inline upvc handles come with an elongated spindle that runs through middle of the handle and into the window frame in order to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames and have a distinctive, hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have one screw that holds the handle to the frame and are not as secure as other kinds of window handles.

Handles that tilt and turn

Unlike the other handles made of upvc, tilt and turn handles can be turned to open the window and the handle can be tilted to the side for ventilation. They feature a 7mm spindle in the back and are available both in left and right-handed versions.

When you are purchasing replacement handles for upvc, it is important to measure the spindle's length because not all handles are the same size. To determine the length of your handle made of upvc, simply drop something into the middle of the hole and then measure how far it extends before meeting an obstruction. This is the largest spindle size that will fit into your windows.

What is a spindle?

uPVC window handles operate in a similar way as doors, with the user turning the handle to operate a latch inside the frame. The window is then opened and shut. But, at times, these handles can become damaged, especially if they are regularly used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This can lead to the need to replace your uPVC windows handles as they might not be able to operate the window properly anymore.

There are many types of uPVC handles, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed to fit in the uPVC frames in various ways. Each handle uses a specific spindle to lock the mechanism into the window. It is crucial to know the type of handle you have installed on your uPVC windows so that you can replace it with the correct one.

You can check what type of uPVC handle you have by inspecting the base of your handle. A snap-in cover is over the screw that holds the base of the handle in position. Remove this and then you should be able see the second holding screw on the opposite side of the base section of the handle. After both screws have been removed then you should be able to take the handle out of the uPVC.

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 new one that is the same length as the original handle and the locking device.

The main issue with most window handle problems with uPVC is that the spindle gets worn out and can no longer work with the locking mechanism. This could be due to damage caused by constant use, a loosening of the locking mechanism or even rust over time. If this happens, you will have to replace both the window handle and locking mechanism to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.

How do I remove my old handle?

Over time and through everyday use, window handles can become damaged or broken and if this happens, it is important to repair them as quickly as possible to ensure the security of your home. The good news is that replacing a damaged or worn handle is a easy task that can be carried out in just over one minute and doesn't require any special tools.

To remove the old handle, first remove the screw at the base of the handle. After the screw is removed, the handle can be pulled away. A second screw will be located at the bottom of the handle. This too can be removed. When both screws are removed the handle can be removed completely from the base portion of the window.

After removing the old handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle to the holes already present in the window frame. If there is a sticker or cap on the new handle remove it if required and screw the handle in the appropriate position. Once the handle is in place it is crucial to verify that it works by turning the handle, and ensuring that the lock mechanism activates.

Espag handles come with spindles that protrude out of the handle and slot into the multipoint locking mechanism of the window frame. Cadenza windows come with a blade with cutouts that fit into the lock mechanism. Cockspur handles are long and hang over the outer frame of the window or the transom crossmember of the bar.

After you have installed the new handle, insert the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Once the handle is firmly fixated, replace the'snap in' cover and the screw cap (if appropriate). The handle is now ready to use, so try opening and closing the window several times to make sure that it works properly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

The process of changing your window handle made of uPVC isn't difficult and the process is quite simple. All you need is a screwdriver and little bit of patience. The first step is make sure that the handle is locked and then remove any screws that are visible, you can replace them with screw caps if needed. After removing the handle, you need to make a note of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial because it will determine the type of handle you need to purchase.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle used on uPVC windows. They feature a spindle that runs through the handle and operates a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle opens the latch and allows the window handle replacement to open. Over time and through regular use, espagnolette handles can be damaged or destroyed and it is necessary to find a replacement.

Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is commonly employed with tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding knife that is operated by a multi-point locking mechanism within the window. They are more secure than the espagnolette handle as they can only open from the inside. You can replace them with the same method that you would with espagnolette handles, Window Handle Replacement but make sure the new handle is not angled and flat.

Once you have selected the correct handle, simply align the new handle with the existing screw holes prior to fixing it with screws. Then, put the screws back on and verify that your new handle is operating correctly. You can accomplish this by dragging the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked for a few times. If you have any issues, it might be worthwhile contacting a professional to determine if they can assist you in solving the issue. They can provide advice on how to resolve the problem in a timely and effective way.