UPVC Window Handle ReplacementReplacing a damaged or broken window handle is a easy process, and, with the right tools, it can be accomplished quite quickly. It is essential to know the type of handle you have and its spindle size before you purchase a replacement.
Older uPVC windows have handles with cockspurs, which have spurs that protrude to lock over a cockspur wedge striker plate. They can be left- or right-handed, and must match when replaced.
What type of lock and handle do I need?
There are many kinds of window handles made of upvc and locks, each with their distinct advantages and functions. The type of handle you own will determine if the locking mechanism you have is effective and if it is easy to open windows. As time passes, and with regular use, the upvc handles on your windows may get worn out and damaged. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some cases they might even be completely removed. If you find that your window handles have been removed, it's important to repair them as quickly as possible. This will help prevent burglaries, and keep your house safe.
Luckily, replacing your upvc window handles is a fairly simple job that can be done by anyone. With a few basic tools and the right information, this is a simple process that shouldn't take less than a few minutes. You must know the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will allow you to choose the right replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
They are usually found on the outside of the window. They are flat in design and have a latch that connects to the locking mechanism on the window frame when it is turned. Inline upvc handles feature a spindle running through the middle of the handle to the window frame to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames and feature an unusual hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the frame of the window by one screw, and are less secure than other kinds of window handles.
Tilt and Turn Handles
The tilt and turn handles differ from other upvc handles in that they can be rotated to open the window and then lowered into the window to allow air circulation. In general, they feature a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle and are available in both left and right-handed versions.
When buying replacement upvc handles, it is important to check the spindle length since not all of them are identical in size. To test the length of your upvc handle simply drop something in the middle of the hole and then measure how far down it goes before meeting an obstruction. This is the maximum spindle length that will fit in your window.
What is the spindle?
uPVC window handles operate in a similar way as doors, with the user turning the handle to activate an opening inside the frame. The window is then opened and shut. The handles could be damaged, especially if they're often used or are exposed to harsh environments. This could mean that you have to replace your uPVC windows handles as they may not be able to operate the window properly anymore.
There are many different types of uPVC handle options, including Espag,
UPVC Window Handle Replacement Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed to fit in the uPVC frames in various ways, and each type of handle has a particular spindle that is used to lock the mechanism fitted into the window. This is why it is crucial to know what type of handle is installed on your uPVC window so you can find the right replacement.
You can determine the type of uPVC handle you are using by inspecting the base of your handle. There should be a "snap-in cover' over one screw that holds the handle base in the correct position. Remove this and then you should be able to see the second screw located at the opposite end of the base of the handle. After both screws have been removed and you are able to take the handle out of the uPVC.
After removing the uPVC handle, carefully unscrew it from the locking mechanism. Note the length of the spindle. You will need to purchase a new one that is the same length as the handle that was originally used and the locking device.
The spindle wears out and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This could be due to wear and tear from continuous use or a loosening of the locking mechanism or even corrosion 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 the handle from the previous one?
Window handles can become damaged or broken over time. It is crucial to repair them as quickly as you can to ensure your safety. The good news is that replacing a damaged or worn handle is a easy task that can be carried out in just over a minute and doesn't require any specialist tools.
To remove the handle, you must first remove the screw at the bottom of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle will be removed. A second screw will be located at the base of the handle. This can also be removed. After these two screws are removed, the handle can be removed from the base of the window.
After the handle has been removed, you can take the new handle and line up the fixing holes with the holes that are currently in the window frame. There might be a small cap or sticker on the new handle, so take them off these if necessary and then screw the handle in the frame. Once the handle is in place it is crucial to verify that it works by turning the handle and making sure that the lock mechanism is activated.
Espag handles have a spindle which protrudes from the handle and slot into the multipoint locking mechanism on the window frame. Cadenza windows come with a blade with cutouts which 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.
After you have put in the new handle, place the spindle inside the window lock and tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if appropriate) after the handle is fixed. The handle is now ready to use, so try opening and closing the
window replacement cost uk a few times to make sure that it works correctly and securely.
How do I install the new handle?
Changing your uPVC window handle isn't difficult and the process is actually very simple. All you need is an screwdriver and a little bit of patience. First, make sure the handle that you are replacing is unlocked. Remove any visible screws. You can also replace them with screw caps. Once the handle is removed it is necessary to take an outline of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial since it will determine the kind of handle you'll need to buy.
Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle for uPVC windows. The spindle passes through the handle to operate the locking mechanism in the window frame. When the handle is turned it releases the latch on the window, allowing it to open. When used regularly and time, handles made of espagnolette can become damaged.
Cadenza handles are a form of uPVC handle that is typically employed with tilt and turn windows. They have a protruding blade that operates a multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are usually more secure than espagnolette handles since they can only be opened from the inside. They can be replaced with the same method as espagnolette handles however you should ensure that the new handle has an angled blade, as opposed to one that is flat.
After you have picked the right handle, simply align the new handle to existing screw holes prior to screwing it into place. After that, you can put the screw covers on and test your new handle.