UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It is easy to repair a broken window handle using the appropriate tools. However, it is essential to know your type of handle and the spindle's length prior buying a replacement.

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

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

There are many upvc window locks and handles each with their particular advantages and uses. The type of handle you own will determine if your locking mechanism is effective and if it's easy to open the windows. With time and regular use the handles made of upvc on your windows could be damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and effective. In certain instances, they might even fall off completely. If you find that your window handles have fallen off, it's essential to fix them as soon as you can. This will prevent possible break-ins and will keep your home secure.

The good news is that replacing your upvc window handles is a relatively simple task that can be completed by almost everyone. With just a few tools and the proper knowledge it's a straightforward process that shouldn't take longer than a couple of minutes. To get started you'll need to determine the kind of handle and lock you have on your upvc window, which will help you identify the best replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most common type of upvc handles and are typically located on the outside of your window. They are flat and feature 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 into the window frame to control the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are usually found on older uPVC windows and have a distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are secured to the frame of the window by a single screw and are less secure than other kinds of window handles.

Handles that turn and tilt

The tilt and turn handles differ from other handles made of upvc in that they can be rotated for opening the window, and then lowered into the window to ventilate. In general, they have a 7mm spindle on 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. Drop something in the middle of the hole to check the length. This is the largest spindle size that will fit into your windows.

What is spindles?

uPVC window handles operate similarly to doors, by turning the handle to operate an internal latch within the frame. The window then opens and closed. The handles could be damaged, especially if they're frequently used or exposed to harsh environments. This could mean that you have to replace your uPVC handles on glass windows replacement since they might not operate the window correctly in the future.

There are a variety of uPVC handles to choose from, including Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. They are designed to fit inside the uPVC frames in various ways and each handle type utilizes 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 right one.

You can determine the type of uPVC handle you are using by taking a look at the base of the handle. A snap-in cover should be over the screw that holds the handle's base in position. Take it off and you should be able see the second holding screw at the opposite end of the base of the handle. After both screws are removed and you are able to remove the handle from the uPVC.

After removing the uPVC handle, carefully unscrew it from the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle, as you'll need to ensure that you buy a replacement window seals that has the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.

The spindle wears down and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This could be due to corrosion, damage due to frequent use, or an unreliable locking mechanism. If this happens, you'll need to replace both the window handle and the locking mechanism in order to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.

How do I remove the old handle?

Through time and regular use, window handles may become damaged or broken, and when this happens, it is essential to fix them as quickly as possible to ensure the safety of your home. It is simple to replace a damaged or worn handle. The task can be completed in less than a minute without the need of special tools.

To remove the handle, you must first remove the screw that is located at the base of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle will be removed. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle base, and it is able to be removed as well. After these two screws have been removed, the handle will be detached from the window's base.

After removing the old handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle to the existing holes in the window frame. If there is a sticker or cap on the new handle, take it off it if necessary and then screw the handle into the appropriate position. It is essential to ensure that the handle is working after it has been installed. Turn the handle and make sure the lock mechanism is working.

Espag handles feature a spindle which protrudes out of the handle and slot into the multipoint locking mechanism of the window frame. Cadenza windows come with an edge with cut-outs which slot into the lock mechanism, while Cockspur handles have a long nose that is able to hook over either the frame's outer or the transom bar cross member in the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, insert the spindle into the lock in the window and then tighten it down. When the handle is fixed in place then replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if necessary). The handle is now ready to use, so try opening and closing the window screen replacement several times to ensure that it functions properly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

Switching your uPVC window handle isn't difficult and the process is simple. All you need is a screwdriver and a small amount of patience. First, make sure the old handle is unlocked. Then remove any screws visible. You can also replace them using screw caps. 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 crucial as it will determine the kind of handle that you will need to buy.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle used on uPVC windows. The spindle passes through the handle to activate the locking mechanism in the frame of the window. Once the handle is turned it releases the latch on the window, allowing it to open. When used regularly and time, handles made of espagnolette can be damaged.

Cadenza handles are a type of uPVC handle that is usually used in tilt and turn windows. They feature an extended blade that works a multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are usually more secure than espagnolette handles since they are only accessible from the inside. They can be replaced with the same procedure as espagnolette handles, however you must ensure that the new handle has an angled blade instead of one that is flat.

After you have picked the correct handle, you can align the new handle to existing screw holes before fixing it with screws. After that, you can put the screw covers on and test your new handle. You can perform this by moving the handle between the locked position to the unlocked several times. If you have any issues, it could be beneficial to speak with a professional to determine if they can help resolve the problem. They can often advise you on the best solution to resolve the issue in a speedy and efficient way.