UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It's easy to repair a broken window handle with the proper tools. It is important to identify the kind of handle you have and its spindle size before purchasing the replacement.

Older uPVC windows use cockspur window handles which have a spur that protrudes to lock over a cockspur wedge striker plate. These can be left- or right-handed, and must match when replaced.

What kind of lock and handle do I have?

There are many kinds of window handles made of upvc and locks, each with its particular advantages and uses. The type of handle you have will determine how easy it is to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism functions in the way you want it to. Over time, and with regular use the handles made of upvc on your windows may get worn out and damaged. This makes them less secure and effective. In certain instances, they might even fall off completely. It is essential to fix the handles on your window made of upvc as soon as you notice them falling off. This will help prevent potential break-ins and ensure your home is secure.

The good news is that replacing your window handles made of plastic is a simple task that can be completed by almost anyone. You will need some basic tools, but with right knowledge, it is simple and should only take a couple of minutes. To begin you must determine the kind of lock and handle that you have on your upvc window to help you find the perfect replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are the most popular kind of upvc handle and are usually placed on the outside of your window. They are flat and have an open latch that is connected to the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles also have a spindle that goes through the centre of the handle and then into the frame of the window to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames and Window Handle Replacement have distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles have a single screw that secures the handle to the frame and aren't as secure as other kinds of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

As opposed to the other upvc handles, tilt and turn handles can both be rotated to open the window and the handle can be tilted to the side to let air flow in. They feature a 7mm spindle on the back and are available in right-hand and left-hand versions.

It is essential to know the spindle's size prior to purchasing a replacement upvc handle. Not all are exactly the same size. To determine the length of your upvc handle simply drop something in the middle of the hole, and then measure how far it extends before it reaches an obstruction. This is the maximum spindle length that will be suitable for your window.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles function in a similar way like doors, turning the handle to activate an internal latch within the frame. This opens the window so that it can be shut and opened. However, sometimes these handles can become damaged, particularly when they are used frequently or exposed to extreme weather conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC handles on windows since they might not be able to operate the window correctly in the future.

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

You can determine the type 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. After removing this 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 and you are able to remove the handle from the uPVC.

Once you have removed your uPVC window handle, you have to remove the old spindle from the locking mechanism. Note the length of the spindle. You will need to buy a replacement of the same length as the original handle and the locking device.

The spindle wears out and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This can be due to damage from constant use or a loosening of the locking mechanism, or even corrosion that occurs over time. If this happens, you will need to replace window pane both the window handle and locking mechanism in order 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 important to repair them as soon as possible to ensure the security of your home. It is easy to replace a damaged or worn handle. The task can be accomplished in under one minute without the need for special tools.

The first step to remove the old handle is to remove the screw located at the top of the base of the handle. Once the screw has been removed, the handle can be removed. There is a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle base, and it can be removed too. When both screws are removed, the handle can be removed from the base section of the window.

Once the old handle is removed, you can take the new handle and align the fixing holes with the holes that are currently in the window frame. There may be a little cap or sticker on the new handle, so take off these if necessary and then put the handle in place. It is important to check whether the handle functions after it has been installed. Turn the handle over and ensure that the lock mechanism is working.

Espag handles come with a spindle that protrudes from the handle and slot into a multipoint locking mechanism in the window frame. Cadenza windows feature an edge with cut-outs which slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have a long nose that hooks over either the outer frame or the 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. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if applicable) once the handle is securely fixed. Once the handle is in use, simply open and close the window replacements a few times to ensure it works properly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

Changing your uPVC window handle isn't a big deal and the process is quite simple. All you need is a screwdriver, and a bit of patience. The first thing you need to do is make sure that the handle you have previously used is in the unlocked position and then take out any screws that are visible. you can replace them with screw caps if needed. After removing the handle and you are ready to take a note of the length of the spindle which protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial because it will determine the type of handle you need to buy.

Espagnolette handles made of uPVC are the most well-known type of handle. They feature a spindle that runs through the handle and acts as a locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle opens the latch and allows the window to open. With time and regular use, espagnolette handles may become damaged or impaired which is why it is essential to find replacements.

Cadenza handles are a second type of uPVC window handle commonly used on 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 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 however, make sure that the new handle is angled and not flat.

Once you have determined the correct handle to purchase, you can simply align the new handle to the existing screw holes and then screw it in the appropriate position. Then, put the screws back on and test that the new handle functions correctly. You can perform this by dragging the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked a few time. If you encounter any issues, it could be worth contacting a specialist to determine if they can assist in resolving the issue. They can provide advice on how to fix the problem in a timely and efficient manner.