UPVC Window Handle Replacement

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

Older uPVC window handles have a spur that extends and is locked over the wedge striker. They can be left or right-handed and need to be replaced with the same handle.

What kind of lock and handle do I have?

There are many windows locks and handles made of upvc, each with its particular advantages and uses. The type of handle you have will determine if your locking mechanism is effective and if it's easy to open the windows. As time passes, and with regular use the upvc handles that are on your windows may be damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and effective. In some cases, they may even fall off completely. It is essential to fix your window handles made of upvc when you see them falling off. This will prevent possible break-ins and ensure that your home is safe.

It is a good thing that replacing your window handles made of upvc is a fairly simple job that can be done by nearly anyone. With a few basic tools and the right knowledge it's a straightforward procedure that should take no more than a couple minutes. You must know the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will help you choose the right replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most common kind of upvc handle and are usually located on the outside of your window. They are flat and have a latch which engages the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles have a spindle that goes through the center of the handle and into the frame of the window to activate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are typically found on older uPVC window frames and feature a distinctive, hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the frame of the window with one screw, and are less secure than other varieties of window handle.

Tilt and Turn Handles

In contrast to other upvc handles that are tilt and turn, these handles can be rotated to open the window, and turned inwards to allow to let air flow in. They have a 7mm spindle on the back and are available in right-hand and left-hand versions.

When you are purchasing replacement handles for upvc, it is important to check the spindle length since not all of them are identical in size. Drop something in the middle of the hole to test the length. This is the maximum spindle size that will fit into your windows.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles operate similarly as doors. By turning the handle, you are able to operate a latch within the frame. The window is then opened and shut. However, sometimes the handles may become damaged, particularly if they are regularly used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This could mean that you have to replace your uPVC windows handles as they might not be able to operate the window properly anymore.

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

You can check what type of uPVC handle you are using by inspecting the base of your handle. A snap-in cover is over the screw that holds the handle's base in position. After removing this you will be able to see the second screw that holds the handle base in position. After both screws are removed then you should be able to pull the handle from the uPVC.

After you have removed the uPVC window handle, you will need to remove the spindle you have removed from the locking mechanism. Take note of the length of the spindle. You'll need to buy a replacement handles for windows of the same length as the handle that was originally used and locking device.

The spindle wears out and becomes inoperable with the locking mechanism. This could be due wear and tear from continuous use or a loosening of the locking mechanism, or even corrosion over time. If this occurs, 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 get rid of my old handle?

In the course of time and daily usage, window handles could become damaged or broken and when this happens, it is crucial to repair them as soon as you can to ensure the safety of your home. It is simple to replace a worn or damaged handle. The task can be completed in under an hour without the need for special tools.

The first step in removing the old handle is to take off the screw located at the top of the base of the handle. Once this is removed the handle can be pulled away from the base section. A second screw will be situated at the base of the handle. It can also be removed. Once these two screws have been removed, the handle can be removed from the window's base.

After removing the handle, align the fixing 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 place. Once the handle is in place it is important to test whether it functions by turning the handle and making sure that the lock mechanism activates.

Espag handles have an extra spindle that is protruding from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism inside 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 frame that surrounds the window or the transom crossmember of the bar.

Once you have the new handle in place, slide the spindle inside the window lock and then tighten it down. When the handle is fixed then replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if necessary). Now that the handle is ready for use, simply open and close the window a few times to ensure it works properly and securely.

How do I put in the new handle?

It's not difficult to change the handle on your uPVC windows. The process is very simple. You only need a screwdriver and a bit of perseverance. First, make sure that the old handle is unlocked. Then, remove any visible screws. You can also replace them with screw caps. After removing the handle and you are ready to take a note of the length of the spindle that extends from the back of the handle. This is crucial since it will determine the type of handle that you will need to purchase.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle used on uPVC windows. The spindle passes through the handle to activate the locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. When the handle is turned it opens the latch on the window and allows it to open. With time and regular use, espagnolette handles could be damaged or destroyed, making it necessary to locate replacements.

Cadenza handles are another type of uPVC window handle, which is typically used on tilt and turn windows. They have a protruding blade that operates a multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are generally more secure than handles made of espagnolette because they can only be opened from the inside. You can replace them with the same procedure as you would for espagnolette handles, but make sure the new handle is angled, not flat.

After you have chosen the correct handle, simply align the new handle with existing screw holes before fixing it with screws. Then, put the screws back on and verify that your new handle is operating properly. You can accomplish this by moving the handle between the locked position to the unlocked for a few times. It might be worthwhile to speak with an expert to see if you can resolve any issues. They can offer advice on how to resolve the issue in a quick and efficient manner.