UPVC Window Handle Replacement

It is easy to replace a broken window handle with the right tools. It is essential to know the type of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before you purchase the replacement.

Older uPVC window handles have a spur which protrudes and locks on the wedge striker. They can be left- or right-handed and should be matched when replacing.

What type of lock or handle do you have? I have?

There are a variety of window locks and handles made from upvc each with its distinct advantages and functions. The type of handle that you choose will determine whether or not the locking mechanism you have is effective and if it's easy to open the windows. As time passes, and with regular use the handles made of upvc on your windows can become damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some cases they may even fall completely off. It is crucial to fix your upvc window handles immediately if you see they are falling off. This will prevent possible break-ins and will keep your home secure.

Luckily, replacing your window handles made of plastic is a relatively simple task that can be done by nearly everyone. You will need some basic tools, but with right knowledge, it is an easy task that will take only a couple of minutes. To begin you'll need to determine the kind of handle and lock you have on your window and then identify the best replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are typically located on the outside of the window. They are flat in design and feature a latch that connects to the locking mechanism on the frame of the window when it is turned. Inline upvc handles have an elongated spindle that runs through middle of the handle into the window frame to control 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 frame of the window with a single screw and are less secure than other kinds of window handle.

Tilt and Turn Handles

The tilt and turn handles are different from other upvc handles in that they can be turned to open the window and then tilted into the window to ventilate. They feature a 7mm spindle on the back and are available in right and left-handed versions.

When buying replacement upvc handles, it is important to measure the spindle's length because not all handles are the same size. Drop something in the middle of the hole to measure the length. This is the longest spindle length that will fit your window.

What is a spindle?

uPVC window handles work similar as doors, with the user turning the handle to operate a latch inside the frame. This opens the window to allow it to be closed and opened. But, at times, handles can be damaged, particularly if they are regularly used or exposed to extreme weather conditions. You may have to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they're not able to operate it properly.

There are a variety of uPVC handles, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. These handles are designed to fit inside the uPVC frames in a variety of ways and each handle type has a particular spindle that is used to secure the mechanism to the window. This is why it is important to know the kind of handle is installed on your uPVC window to find the right windowpane replacement for it.

The base of the handle will tell you what type of uPVC it is. There should be a "snap-in cover' over one screw that holds the handle's base in the correct position. After removing this you will be able to observe the second screw that holds the handle base in place. After both screws have been removed, you should be in a position to pull the handle away from the uPVC window.

Once you have removed the uPVC window handle, you will need to carefully unscrew the old spindle from the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle as you'll need to ensure that you buy 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 handle spindle gets worn-out and is unable to longer operate the locking mechanism. This can be due to damage from constant use, a loosening of the locking mechanism, or even corrosion over time. If this occurs, it is necessary to replace the window handle as well as the locking mechanism to restore full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I take off my old handle?

Window handles can become damaged or broken over time. It is important to fix them as quickly a possible to ensure your safety. It is simple to replace a damaged or worn handle. The task can be completed in less than one minute without the need for any special tools.

To take off the handle, you must first remove the screw that is located at the base of the handle. Once this is removed the handle will be pulled away from the base. Another screw will be situated at the base of the handle. This can also be removed. When both screws are removed the handle can be removed completely from the base portion of the window.

After removing the handle and align the fixing holes of the new handle with the existing holes in the window screen replacement frame. If there is a sticker or cap on the new handle remove it if required and screw the handle into place. Once the handle is set, it is important to test whether it functions by turning the handle and ensuring that the lock mechanism activates.

Espag handles have spindles that extend from the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism of the frame of the window. Cadenza windows come with a blade with cutouts that fit into the lock mechanism. Cockspur handles are long and are hung over the frame that surrounds the window or the transom bar crossmember.

Once you have the new handle in place, insert the spindle inside the lock in the window and then tighten it down. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if appropriate) once the handle has been firmly fixed. The handle is now ready for use, so try opening and closing the window a few times to check 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 a screwdriver and a little bit of patience. The first step is to ensure that the handle you have previously used is in the unlocked position and then take out any screws that are visible. you can also replace these with screw caps if required. After the handle has been removed it is necessary to take a note of the length of the spindle that extends from the back of the handle. This is crucial since it will determine the kind of handle that you will need to purchase.

Espagnolette handles are the most common kind of handle that is used on uPVC windows. They have a spindle which runs through the handle and acts as a locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. When the handle is turned, it releases the latch on the window, allowing it to open. With time and regular use, espagnolette handles could become damaged or impaired which is why it is essential to find a replacement.

Cadenza handles are a different kind of uPVC window handle commonly used on tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that operates a multiple-point locking mechanism within the window handle replacement. They are usually more secure than espagnolette handles since they are only accessible from the inside. You can replace them with the same method as you would do for handles made of espagnolette however, ensure that the new handle is angled, not flat.

After you have picked the right handle, simply align the new handle to existing screw holes prior to screwing it in place. Then, put the screws back on and test that the new handle is working properly. This is done by moving the handle from locked position to the unlocked and the reverse direction several times. It is possible to contact an expert to determine if you can resolve any issues. They can advise you on how to resolve the issue in a timely and effective way.