UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It is easy to repair a broken window handle with the right tools. It's important to know the type of handle you have and the spindle's size before you purchase an alternative.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur which extends and is locked over a wedge striker. They can be right-handed or left-handed, and must match when replaced.

What kind of lock and handle do I need?

There are a variety of upvc window locks and handles each with their own advantages and purposes. The type of handle you are using will determine how easy it is to open your windows replacements near me and if the locking mechanism works in the way you want it to. Over time and through regular use, window handles made of upvc can become damaged or worn out, rendering them less secure and effective. In some cases they might even be completely removed. It is crucial to fix your window handles made of upvc immediately if you begin to notice them falling off. This will help prevent burglaries, and keep your house secure.

It's a simple job that almost anyone can do. With a few basic tools and the right information, this is a simple process that shouldn't take less than a few minutes. To begin you must identify the type of handle and lock you have on your window to help you identify the best replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most common kind of upvc handle and are usually located on the outside of your window. They have a flat design and feature a latch that engages with the locking mechanism on the window frame when it is turned. Inline upvc handles also have spindles that run through the center of the handle, and into the window frame to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and feature an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are held to the window frame by a single screw and are less secure than other types of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

The tilt and turn handles are different from other handles made of upvc in that they can be rotated to open the window and then tilted to the window to let air circulate. They have a 7mm spindle on the back and are available both in left and right-handed versions.

It is essential to know the spindle size when buying replacement glass for windows handles made of upvc. There are a few that are the exact same size. Drop something into the middle of the hole to measure the length. This is the maximum spindle length that will fit in your window.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles function in a similar way like doors, turning the handle to open a latch inside the frame. The window is then opened and closed. However, in some cases, these handles can become damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This could mean that you have to replace your uPVC handles on windows since they might not be able to operate the window properly anymore.

There are many different types of uPVC handle options, such as Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. These handles are designed to fit in the uPVC frames in various ways. Each handle has a particular spindle that is used to lock the mechanism to the window. This is why it is important to identify the kind of handle you have on your uPVC window so you can get the correct replacement for it.

You can check what type of uPVC handle you have by taking a look at the base of your handle. A snap-in covers should be over the screw that holds the base of the handle in position. When you remove this cover you will be able to see the screw that holds the base of the handle in position. After both screws have been removed and you are able to pull the handle from the uPVC.

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

The most common issue with 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 damage caused by constant use or loosening of the locking mechanism, or even corrosion over time. If this happens, you will need to replace both the window handle and locking mechanism in order to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.

How do I get rid of my old handle?

In the course of time and daily usage, window handles could become damaged or broken, and when this happens, it is essential to fix them as soon as you can to ensure the safety of your home. The good news is that replacing a worn or damaged handle is a fairly simple task that can be carried out in just over an hour and doesn't require any specialist tools.

The first step to remove the handle that was previously used is to take off the screw located at the top of the base of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle can then be removed from the base section. A second screw will be situated at the base of the handle. This too can be removed. Once these two screws have been removed, the handle will be detached from the base of the window.

After the handle has been removed, grab the new handle and align the fixing holes with the holes currently in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle remove it if necessary and then screw the handle in the appropriate position. Once the handle is set, it is essential to check whether it functions by turning the handle and making sure that the lock mechanism activates.

Espag handles have an elongated spindle that extends from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism in the window frame. Cadenza windows come with blades with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism, while Cockspur handles have an extended nose that hangs over either the frame's outer or the transom bar cross member in the window.

After you have installed the new handle, place the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if applicable) once the handle is fixed. The handle is now ready to use to use, so try opening and closing the window several times to check that it is working well and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

It's not that difficult to change the handle on your uPVC windows. The process is simple. All you require is a screwdriver and little bit of patience. First, ensure that the old handle is unlocked. Then, remove any screws visible. You can also replace them using screw caps. After you have removed the handle, you'll need to record the length of the spindle which extends from the back. This is crucial as it will determine the kind of handle you'll need to buy.

Espagnolette handles on uPVC are the most popular kind of handle. The spindle is inserted into the handle to activate the locking mechanism in the frame of the window replacement glass. Once the handle is turned it opens the latch on the window, allowing it to open. In regular use and over time, handles for espagnolette may become damaged.

Cadenza handles are a kind of uPVC handle that is commonly used in tilt and turn windows. They have an extended blade that works an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within the window. They are usually more secure than handles made of espagnolette because they are only accessible from the inside. They can be replaced using the same method that you would do for handles made of espagnolette however, make sure that the new handle is angled, not flat.

Once you've decided on the right handle for you then you can line up the new handle with the existing screw holes and then screw it in place. You should then put the screw covers back on and verify that the new handle is working correctly. This is done by moving the handle from locked to the unlocked position and the reverse direction several times. If you have any issues, it may be worthwhile contacting a professional to determine if they can help resolve the problem. They can offer advice on how to resolve the issue in a timely and efficient manner.