UPVC Window Handle Replacement
It’s easy to repair a broken window handle with the proper tools. It’s important to know the type of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before purchasing a replacement.
Older uPVC windows replacement near me use cockspur window handles which have an extension spur that can secure a wedge-shaped cockspur striker plate. These can be right-handed or left-handed, and must be compatible when replaced.
What kind of lock or handle do you have? I have
There are a myriad of windows locks and handles made of upvc each with their own advantages and purposes. The type of handle you have will determine how easy it is to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism functions as intended. As time passes and with regular use, upvc window handles may become damaged or worn out, rendering them less secure and efficient. In some cases, they may even fall off completely. If you find that your window handles have been removed, it’s important to repair them as quickly as you can. This will help prevent burglaries and ensure that your home is safe.
The good news is that replacing your upvc window handles is a relatively simple task that can be done by anyone. You will need a few basic tools, but with the appropriate knowledge, it’s a straightforward process that should only take a couple of minutes. To get started, you will need to determine the kind of lock and handle you have on your upvc window, which will help you identify the best replacement handles for windows.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
These are the most common type of upvc handles and are usually placed on the side of your window. They are flat and have an opening that engages the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles feature a spindle running through the middle of the handle and into the window frame in order to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
These handles are typically found on older uPVC windows and feature a distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the window frame by one screw, and are less secure than other varieties of window handle.
Handles that can tilt and turn
In contrast to other handles made of upvc that are tilt and turn, these handles can be rotated to open the windows and turned inwards to allow for ventilation. Generally, they feature a 7mm spindle on the side of the handle. They are available in left and right handed versions.
It is crucial to determine the size of the spindle when purchasing a new upvc handles. There are a few that are the exact same size. To test the length of your upvc handle simply drop something into the middle of the hole, and then measure the distance it travels before it comes into contact with an obstruction. This is the largest spindle size that will fit into your windows.
What is a spindle?
uPVC window handles work in a similar way as doors. By turning the handle, you will be able to operate a latch within the frame. The window then opens and shut. But, at times, handles can be damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC handles for windows as they may not be able to operate the window in a proper manner anymore.
There are many types of uPVC handle options, such as Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed in a variety ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle style uses a different spindle to lock the glass window replacements mechanism. This is why it is crucial to know the kind of handle you have on your uPVC window so you can find the right replacement for it.
The base of the handle will inform the type of uPVC it is. There should be a “snap in’ cover over one screw which holds the handle base in place. Remove this and then you should be able to see the second holding screw at the opposite end of the base section of the handle. After both screws are removed you should be able to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.
After you have removed the uPVC handle, carefully unscrew it from the locking mechanism. Take careful note of the length of the spindle since you’ll need to ensure that you buy one that is the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.
The main issue with most uPVC window handle problems is that the spindle becomes worn-out and is unable to longer work with the locking mechanism. This could be due wear and tear from continuous use or loosening of the locking mechanism, or even corrosion that occurs over time. 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 get rid of my old handle?
Through time and regular use, window handles may be damaged or destroyed, and if this happens, it is important to repair them as soon as possible to ensure the safety of your home. It is easy to replace a worn or damaged handle. The job can be accomplished in less than a minute without the need of special tools.
The first step to remove the handle that was previously used is to remove the screw that is situated at the top of the handle base. Once this is removed the handle can then be removed from the base. A second screw will be located at the bottom of the handle. It can also be removed. Once the two screws are removed, the handle can be removed from the window’s base.
After removing the handle and align the fixing holes of the new handle to the holes already present in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle, remove it if needed and screw the handle into the appropriate position. It is essential to ensure 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 an extra spindle that is protruding from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism within the frame of the window. Cadenza windows feature blades with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have a long nose that hooks over the frame’s outer or the transom bar cross member within the window handles replacement.
After you have installed the new handle, insert the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Once the handle is securely fixed 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 several times to make sure that it functions well and securely.
How do I install the new handle?
It’s not difficult to alter the handle on your Upvc windows. The process is easy. All you require is a screwdriver, and a little bit of patience. The first step is to ensure that the handle is in the unlocked position and then take out any screws that are visible, you can also replace them with screw caps if required. Once the handle is removed, you need to make a note of the length of the spindle which protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial as it will determine what kind of handle to purchase.
Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle used on uPVC windows. They feature a spindle that runs through the handle and acts as a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle releases the latch, allowing the window to open. With time and regular use, espagnolette handles can be damaged or destroyed which is why it is essential to locate a replacement.
Cadenza handles are a second type of uPVC window handle that is commonly used on tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding knife that operates a multiple-point locking mechanism inside the window. They are more secure than espagnolette handle as they can only open 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 an angled blade instead of one that is flat.
After you have chosen the right handle, simply align the new handle with the existing screw holes before screwing it in place. Then, put the screws back on and make sure the new handle is working correctly. This is accomplished by moving the handle from the locked to the unlocked position and the reverse direction a few times. If you have any issues, it might be worth contacting a specialist to see if they can assist you in solving the issue. They can advise you on how to resolve the issue in a timely and effective manner.