UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It's easy to replace a broken window handle with the right tools. However, it is essential to know your type of handle and the spindle's length prior buying a replacement upvc window handles.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur that protrudes and locks over the cockspur wedge striker. They can be right-handed or left-handed, and must be matched when replacing.

What kind of lock and handle do I have?

There are many different types of upvc window handles and locks, each with their own benefits and purposes. The type of handle that you own will determine whether or not the locking mechanism you have is effective and if it is easy to open windows. As time passes, and with regular use the handles made of upvc on your windows could become damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and effective. In some cases, they may even fall off completely. If you find that your window handles have fallen off, it is crucial to fix them as soon as you can. This will help to avoid burglaries and ensure your home is secure.

The good news is that replacing your window handles made of upvc is a relatively simple task that can be done by anyone. With just a few tools and the proper knowledge it's a simple process that shouldn't take less than a few minutes. To get started, you will need to determine the kind of handle and lock you have on your upvc window and then identify the best replacement window.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are the most popular type of upvc handle and are usually placed on the side of your window. They have a flat design and come with an opening that is connected to the locking mechanism on the frame of the window when it is turned. Inline upvc handles also have spindles that run through the middle of the handle, and into the window frame to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are typically found on older uPVC window frames and feature an unusual hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are secured to the frame of the window with only one screw and are less secure than other types of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

Unlike the other replacement upvc window handles handles the tilt and turn handles can be turned to open the window handles replacement, and tilted inwards for ventilation. They feature a 7mm spindle at the back and are available both in right-hand and left-hand versions.

When buying double glazing replacement window upvc handles, it is important to verify the length of the spindle as not all are the same size. Drop something in the middle of the hole to measure the length. This is the maximum size of spindle that will fit your windows.

What is the spindle?

uPVC window handles work similarly to doors, by turning the handle to activate a latch inside the frame. The window is then opened and shut. However, in some cases, the handles may become damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC handles on windows since they might not operate the window correctly anymore.

There are many different kinds of uPVC handles available comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. 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 crucial to know the type of handle installed on your uPVC windows so that you can replace it with a suitable one.

You can check what type of uPVC handle you have by inspecting the base of the 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 holding screw located at the opposite end of the base portion of the handle. After both screws have been removed, you should be capable of pulling the handle away from the uPVC window.

After you have removed the uPVC window handle, you will need to carefully remove the old spindle from the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle as you'll need to ensure that you buy one that is the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.

The spindle wears out and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This can be due to damage caused by constant use or loosening of the locking mechanism, or even rust over time. If this happens, it is necessary to replace the window handle as well as the locking mechanism to restore the full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I take off the handle from the previous one?

Through time and regular usage, window handles could become damaged or broken and when this happens, it is crucial to repair them as soon as you can to ensure the safety of your home. The good news is that replacing a damaged or worn handle is a easy task that can be completed in less than a minute and doesn't require any special tools.

To take off the handle, you first need to remove the screw at the base of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle will be pulled away. A second screw will be situated at the base of the handle. This can also be removed. Once these two screws are removed, the handle can be detached from the base of the window.

After removing the handle, align the fixing holes of the new handle with the existing holes in the window frame. There may be a little sticker or caps on the new handle, so remove them if needed and then put the handle in its place. It is crucial to verify that the handle works once it is installed. Turn the handle around and make sure that the lock mechanism is activated.

Espag handles have spindles that protrude out of the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism on the window frame. Cadenza windows have a blade with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism, while Cockspur handles have a long nose that is able to hook over either the frame's outer or transom bar cross member inside the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, you can insert the spindle inside the lock inside the window and then tighten it down. Once the handle is firmly fixed in place and secured, replace the snap-in cover and the screw cap (if applicable). The handle is now ready to use, so try opening and closing the window a few times to check that it is working correctly and securely.

How do I fit the new handle?

It's not that difficult to change the handle on your windows made of uPVC. The process is simple. All you require is a screwdriver, and a little bit of patience. The first thing to do is make sure that the handle is not locked and then remove any screws that are visible, you can also replace them by screw caps if you need. After removing the handle you will need to note the length of spindle that extends from the back. 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 kind of handle. The spindle passes through the handle to activate the locking mechanism in the frame of the window. The handle releases the latch and allows the window to open. With time and regular use, espagnolette handles may be damaged or destroyed and it is necessary to locate replacements.

Cadenza handles are a type of uPVC handle that is commonly employed with tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that operates the multipoint locking mechanism inside the window. They are generally more secure than espagnolette handles since they are only accessible from the inside. They can be replaced with the same method as espagnolette handles, however you will need to ensure that the new handle has a curved blade instead of a flat one.

After you have picked the correct handle, simply align the new handle to existing screw holes before screwing it in place. After that, you should put the screw covers back on and verify that the new handle functions correctly. This is done by shifting the handle from the locked position to the unlocked and vice versa several times. It might be worthwhile to speak with an expert to see if you can resolve any issues. They can often advise you on the best solution to solve the issue in a speedy and effective way.