UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It's easy to repair a damaged window handle with the right tools. However, it is essential to know your handle's type and spindle's length prior buying an alternative.

Older uPVC windows use cockspur window handles which have spurs that protrude to lock over a cockspur wedge striker plate. These can be either left or right-handed and need to be matched when replacing.

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

There are a variety of upvc window handles and locks, each with their distinct advantages and functions. The kind of handle you choose will determine the ease to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism works as intended. With time and regular usage, the window handles made of upvc may become damaged or worn out, rendering them less secure and efficient. In some cases they may even fall completely off. If you find that your window handles have been removed, it's crucial to fix them as soon as you can. This will prevent possible break-ins and ensure that your home is secure.

It's a simple job that anyone can complete. You will need a few tools, but with proper knowledge, it's an easy task that will only take a few minutes. To get started you must determine the type of lock and handle that you have on your upvc window and then find the perfect replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are typically located on the outside of the 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 also come with a spindle that runs through the centre of the handle, UPVC Window Handle Replacement and into the window glass replacement frame to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and have an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are attached to the frame of the window with a single screw and are less secure than other varieties of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

In contrast to other handles made of upvc, tilt and UPVC Window Handle Replacement turn handles can be turned to open the windows and turned inwards to allow to let air flow in. Generally, they feature a 7mm spindle on the side of the handle. They are available in left and right-handed versions.

When buying replacement upvc handles, it is important to verify the length of the spindle since not all of them are the same size. To determine the length of your handle made of upvc, simply drop something into the middle of the hole and measure the distance it travels before meeting an obstruction. This is the maximum spindle length that will be suitable for your window.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles work in a similar way as doors, with the user turning the handle to open an internal latch within the frame. This opens the window to allow it to be shut and opened. The handles can become damaged, particularly if they're frequently used or subjected to harsh conditions. This can lead to the need to replace your uPVC handles on windows since they might not be able to operate the window properly in the future.

There are many different types of uPVC handle options, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. These handles are designed to fit in the uPVC frames in various ways and each handle type utilizes a specific spindle to secure the mechanism into the window. This is why it is crucial to know the type of handle you have installed on your uPVC window to get the correct replacement.

You can find out what kind of uPVC handle you are using by taking a look at the base of your handle. 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 observe the second screw that holds the base of the handle in place. After both screws have been removed, you should be able to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

Once you have removed your uPVC window handle, you have to carefully remove the spindle that was previously attached to 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 locking device.

The spindle wears down and cannot operate 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 the locking mechanism to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.

How do I remove my old handle?

Through time and regular use, window handles can be damaged or destroyed, and when this happens, it is crucial to repair them as quickly 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 accomplished in just over a minute and doesn't require any specialist tools.

The first step to remove the handle that was previously used is to take off the screw located on the top of the handle base. Once this is removed the handle can be removed from the base section. There will be another screw located at the bottom of the handle's base, and this can be removed too. Once both of these screws are removed, the handle can be removed from the base of the window.

After removing the handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle with the existing holes in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle, remove it if needed and screw the handle into the appropriate position. Once the handle is in place it is important to test whether it functions by turning the handle, and ensuring that the lock mechanism is activated.

Espag handles come with spindles that protrude from the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism on the frame of the window. Cadenza windows feature a blade with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have a long nose that hooks over the frame's outer or 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. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if applicable) after the handle is securely fixed. Now that the handle is ready to use, simply open and close the window a couple of times to ensure it works 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 simple. All you need is a screwdriver and a bit of patience. The first step 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 need to make a note of the length of the spindle which protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial as it will determine what 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 which is inserted into the handle and acts as a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle opens the latch, allowing the window to open. As time passes and with regular use, espagnolette handles could become damaged or impaired and it is necessary to locate an alternative.

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

Once you have selected the right handle, simply align the new handle with the existing screw holes before screwing it in place. After that, you can put the screws on and test your new handle. This is done by moving the handle from locked to the unlocked position and then back to the locked position a few times. It may be worth contacting an expert to see whether you can solve any issues. They can often advise you on the best solution to solve the issue in a quick and effective way.