UPVC Window Handle Replacement
It is easy to replace a broken window handle with the right tools. However, it is essential to know your type of handle and its spindle's length prior buying a replacement.
Older uPVC windows have cockspur window handles which have a spur that protrudes to the lock of a wedge cockspur striker plate. They can be left- or right-handed and should be compatible when replaced.
What kind of lock or handle do I have
There are many kinds of window handles made from upvc and locks, each with its own benefits and purposes. The type of handle you have will determine if your locking mechanism is efficient and if it's easy to open the windows. Over time, and with regular use the handles made of upvc on your windows could become damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In certain instances, they might even fall completely off. It is crucial to fix your upvc window handles as soon as you see they are falling off. This will help prevent burglaries and will keep your home secure.
It's an easy task that anyone can complete. With a few basic tools and the right knowledge, this is a simple process that shouldn't take less than a few minutes. To get started you must identify the type of handle and lock you have on your window made of upvc and then identify the best replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
These are the most commonly used type of upvc handle and are usually located on the side of your window. They have a flat design and feature an opening that is connected to the locking mechanism on the window frame when it is turned. Inline upvc handles have a spindle that runs through the center of the handle, and into the frame of the window to activate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames and have distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles are secured to the frame of the window with one screw, and are less secure than other kinds of window handles.
Handles that can tilt and turn
In contrast to other upvc handles that are tilt and turn, these handles can be turned to open the
window replacements, and turned inwards to allow for ventilation. They feature a 7mm spindle in the back and are available in left and right-handed versions.
It is essential to know the spindle size when buying replacement handles made of upvc. There are a few that are the exact same size. To determine the length of your upvc handle simply drop something into the middle of the hole and measure how far down it goes before it reaches an obstruction. This is the largest spindle size that will fit your
double glazed windows replacement.
What is the spindle?
uPVC window handles function in a similar way as doors. By turning the handle, you can open a latch in the frame. The window can then be opened and closed. However, in some cases, handles can be damaged, especially when they are used frequently or exposed to harsh weather 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 anymore.
There are a variety of uPVC handles available including Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. These handles are made in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle type uses a different spindle to lock the window mechanism. It is important to identify the type of handle you have installed on your uPVC windows so that you can replace it with a suitable one.
The base of the handle will tell the type of uPVC it is. A snap-in cover is over the 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. Once both screws have been removed then you should be able to remove the handle from the uPVC.
After you have removed the uPVC handle, carefully unscrew it from the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle as you'll need to make sure that you purchase a replacement that has the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.
The main issue with most window handle problems with uPVC is that the spindle becomes worn-out and is unable to longer work with the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage from frequent use, or the locking mechanism becoming looser. 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 take off my old handle?
In the course of time and daily use, window handles may become damaged or broken, and if this happens, it is essential to fix them as soon as possible to ensure the security of your home. It is simple to replace a worn or damaged handle. The task can be completed in less than a minute without the need for special tools.
To remove the handle, you first need to remove the screw located at the bottom of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle will be pulled away. There will be a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle's base and this can be removed too. Once the two screws are removed, the handle can be detached from the window's base.
After removing the handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle to the holes that are already in the window frame. If there is a sticker or cap on the new handle, remove it if required 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 have spindles that extend out of the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism of the window frame. Cadenza windows feature blades with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have a long nose that is able to hook over either the outer frame or transom bar cross member in 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 appropriate) after the handle has been firmly fixed. When the handle is ready to use, you can 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 alter the handle on your windows made of uPVC. The process is very easy. You only need a screwdriver and a bit of perseverance. The first thing to do is ensure that the old handle is not locked and then take out any screws that are visible, you can also replace them with screw caps if needed. After removing the handle, you will need to note the length of the spindle that extends from the back. This is crucial since it will determine the kind of handle that you will require to purchase.
Espagnolette handles on uPVC are the most popular type of handle. They feature a spindle that is connected to the handle and
UPVC Window Handle Replacement operates a locking mechanism within the frame of the window. Once the handle is turned it opens the latch on the window and allows it to open. With time and regular use, espagnolette handles could become damaged or impaired and it is necessary to find replacements.
Cadenza handles are a form of uPVC handle that is usually used with tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that works with a multiple-point locking mechanism inside the window. They are usually more secure than espagnolette handles as they can only be opened from the inside. You can replace them with the same method as you would do for handles made of espagnolette however, ensure that the new handle is not angled and flat.
Once you've decided on the right handle to purchase then you can place the new handle with the existing screw holes, and then screw it into place.