10 Quick Tips About Upvc Window Handle Replacement

UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a broken window handle is a simple process and, UPVC Window Handle Replacement with the right tools, it can be accomplished quite quickly. It's important to know what kind of handle you have and its spindle size before you purchase a replacement double glazed window.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur that extends and is locked over the wedge striker for cockspur. These can be right-handed or left-handed, and must match when replaced.

What type of lock or handle do I have?

There are many different types of upvc window handles and locks, each with their particular advantages and uses. The kind of handle you choose will determine the ease to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism functions in the way you want it to. With time and regular use, glass window replacement handles made of upvc are prone to wear or damage. out, UPVC Window Handle Replacement rendering them less secure and effective. In certain instances, they might even fall completely off. If you notice that your upvc window handles have been removed, it's essential to repair them as quickly as you can. This will help stop potential burglaries and ensure your home is secure.

Luckily, replacing your window handles made of plastic is a relatively simple task that can be completed by anyone. With a few basic tools and the right knowledge it's a straightforward process that shouldn't take longer than a couple of minutes. To begin you must determine the kind of lock and handle you have on your window to help you identify the best replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are the most popular type of upvc handle and are usually located on the outside of your window. They are flat in design and come with an opening that is connected to the locking mechanism of the frame of the window when it is turned. Inline upvc handles come with an elongated spindle that runs through middle of the handle to the window frame to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and feature a distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have a single screw that is used to secure the handle to the window frame and are not as secure as other types of window handles.

Handles that turn and tilt

The tilt and turn handles differ from other upvc handles because they can be rotated for opening the window, and then tilted into the window to allow air circulation. They have a 7mm spindle at the back and are available in right and left-handed versions.

It is essential to know the spindle's size prior to purchasing a replacement handles made of upvc. Not all are exactly the same size. Drop something in the middle of the hole to check the length. This is the length of the spindle that will be suitable for your window.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles work similarly as doors, with the user turning the handle to open an opening inside the frame. The window can then be opened and closed. The handles can become damaged, particularly if they're often used or are exposed to harsh conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC handles for windows as they may not operate the window properly in the future.

There are many types of uPVC handle options, such as Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. These handles are made in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle style 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 to ensure that you replace it with the right one.

You can check what 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 the correct position. After removing this and you'll be able to see the screw that holds the handle base in position. Once both screws have been removed and you are able to remove the handle from the uPVC.

After you have removed the uPVC handle, carefully remove it from the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle since you'll need to ensure that you purchase an alternative that is the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.

The primary issue with window handle problems with uPVC is that the handle spindle gets worn-out and is unable to longer work with the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage caused by continuous use, or even the locking mechanism becoming looser. When this happens it is required to replace the window handle and the locking mechanism to restore full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I remove the old handle?

Window handles are susceptible to being damaged or broken over time. It is important to fix them as soon as you can to ensure your safety. It is good to know that replacing a damaged or worn handle is a relatively simple job that can be carried out in less than one minute and doesn't require any special 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. After the screw is removed, the handle can be pulled away. Another screw will be located at the base of the handle. This too can be removed. After both screws are removed the handle can be completely detached from the base section of the window.

After removing the handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle to the existing holes in the window frame. There might be a small sticker or caps on the new handle, so take off the caps if needed, and then put the handle in the frame. It is crucial to verify that the handle works once it has been installed. Turn the handle and make sure that the lock mechanism is working.

Espag handles have an extra spindle that is protruding from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism within the frame of the window. Cadenza windows have 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 transom bar cross-member inside the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, insert the spindle inside the lock in the window and then tighten it. When the handle is fixated then replace the snap-in cover and the screw cap (if appropriate). The handle is now ready to use by opening and closing the window several times to ensure that it is working well and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

Changing your uPVC window handle isn't a big deal and the process is actually very simple. All you require is a screwdriver and little bit of patience. First, ensure that the handle that you are replacing is unlocked. Then remove any visible screws. You can also replace them with screw caps. After removing the handle, you'll need to record the length of spindle that extends from the back. This is crucial as it will determine what type of handle you need to buy.

Espagnolette handles are the most commonly used type of handle used on uPVC windows. The spindle passes through the handle to operate the locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle opens the latch, allowing the window to open. In regular use and time, handles made of espagnolette can be damaged.

Cadenza handles are a different kind of uPVC window handle, which is typically used on tilt and turn windows. They feature an extended blade that works an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within the window. They are generally more secure than handles made of espagnolette because they are only accessible from the inside. They can be replaced by the same procedure as espagnolette handles however you will need to make sure that the new handle has a curved blade, as opposed to one that is flat.

Once you have determined the right handle to purchase then you can place the new handle to the existing screw holes, and then screw it in place. Then, put the screw covers on and test the new handle. This is accomplished by moving the handle from the locked to the unlocked position and vice versa a few times. If you have any issues, it could be worth contacting a specialist to see if they can help resolve the problem. They can advise you on how to solve the issue in a timely and efficient manner.