UPVC Window Handle Replacement
It’s simple to repair a broken window handle using the appropriate tools. It is important to know your type of handle and its spindle’s length prior buying the replacement window glass.
Older uPVC window handles have a spur that protrudes and locks on the wedge striker. These can be either left or right-handed and need to match when replacing.
What kind of lock and handle do I need?
There are many window locks and handles made from upvc each with their own advantages and purposes. The kind of handle you choose will determine how easy it is to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism works according to the plan. Over time, and with regular use the upvc handles that are on your windows can get worn out and damaged. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some cases they might even fall off completely. It is essential to fix your window handles made of upvc when you begin to notice them falling off. This will prevent possible break-ins and ensure that your home is secure.
Luckily, replacing your upvc sash window replacement handles is a simple task that can be done by almost everyone. With just a few tools and the right knowledge it’s a simple procedure that should take no less than a few minutes. You will need to know the kind of lock or handle you have on your window. This will help you choose the correct replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
They are typically found on the side of the window. They are flat in design and have a latch that engages with the locking mechanism of the window frame when turned. Inline upvc handles have spindles that run through the middle of the handle and then into the frame of the window to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
They are typically found on older uPVC window frames and feature distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles are attached to the frame of the window by only one screw and are less secure than other varieties of window handle.
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 lowered into the window to allow air circulation. They typically have a 7mm spindle at the back of the handle and are available in both left and right handed versions.
It is essential to know the spindle’s size prior to purchasing a replacement upvc handle. Not all are the exact same size. To determine the length of your upvc handle simply drop something in the middle of the hole and measure how far down it goes before meeting an obstruction. This is the largest spindle size that will fit into your windows.
What is spindles?
uPVC window handles work similarly as doors, with the user turning the handle to operate a latch inside the frame. This unlocks the window so it can be shut and opened. The handles can become damaged, especially if frequently used or exposed to harsh conditions. This can lead to the need to replace your uPVC windows handles as they may not operate the window in a proper manner in the future.
There are many different types of uPVC handle options, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. These handles are designed to fit into the uPVC frames in a variety of ways, and each type of handle uses a specific spindle to secure the mechanism into the window. This is why it is essential to know what type of handle you have installed on your uPVC window so you can find the right replacement.
You can determine the type of uPVC handle you are using by taking a look at the base of your handle. A snap-in cover should be over the screw that holds the base of the handle in place. When you remove this cover, you will be able observe the second screw that holds the handle base in position. After both screws have been removed and you are able to pull the handle from the uPVC.
Once you have removed the uPVC window handle you need to carefully unscrew the spindle that was previously attached to the locking mechanism. Take careful note of the length of the spindle since you will need to ensure that you purchase a replacement that has the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.
The most common issue with window handle problems with uPVC is that the spindle gets worn out and cannot longer work with the locking mechanism. This could be due to damage caused by constant use or a loosening of the locking mechanism or even corrosion over time. If this happens, you will have to replace both the window handle and the locking mechanism to restore the full functionality of your uPVC Windows.
How do I get rid of the handle from the previous one?
Window handles are susceptible to being damaged or even broken over the course of time. It is crucial to repair them as quickly as possible to ensure your security. It is easy to replace a worn or damaged handle. The task can be completed in less than an hour without the need of 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. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle’s base, and this can be removed as well. Once both of these screws are removed the handle can be completely detached from the base section of the window.
Once the old handle has been removed, take the new handle and align the fixing holes with the holes that are currently in the window frame. If there is a sticker or cap on the new handle remove it if required and screw the handle into the appropriate position. Once the handle is set, UPVC Window Handle Replacement it is crucial to verify that it is working by turning the handle and ensuring that the lock mechanism activates.
Espag handles have an extra spindle that is protruding from the handle and slot into a multipoint locking mechanism inside the window frame. Cadenza windows come with an edge with cut-outs which slot into the lock mechanism, while Cockspur handles have a long nose that hooks over the frame’s outer or transom bar cross member in the window.
After you have put in the new handle, slide the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Once the handle is firmly fixed in place and secured, replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if necessary). The handle is now ready for use to use, so try opening and closing the window a few times to check that it works properly and securely.
How do I install the new handle?
The process of changing your window handle made of uPVC isn’t difficult and the process is actually very simple. All you need is a screwdriver, and a little bit of patience. The first thing you need to do is ensure that the handle is locked and then remove any screws that are visible. you can replace them by screw caps if you need. After the handle has been removed it is necessary to take an note of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is important as it will determine what kind of handle to purchase.
Espagnolette handles are the most common kind of handle that is used on uPVC windows. The spindle runs through the handle to control the locking mechanism in the window frame. Once the handle is turned it opens the latch on the window, allowing it to open. Over time and through regular use, espagnolette handles could become damaged or impaired, making it necessary to find a replacement.
Cadenza handles are another type of uPVC window handle, which is typically used on tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that operates the multipoint locking mechanism inside the window. They are more secure than espagnolette handles since they only open from the inside. They can be replaced using the same procedure as espagnolette handles but you should ensure that the new handle has a curved blade as opposed to flat ones.
Once you have selected the right handle, simply align the new handle with existing screw holes prior to fixing it with screws. After that, you should put the screws back on and verify that the new handle functions properly. You can perform this by dragging the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked a few time. It might be worthwhile to speak with an expert to determine whether you can solve any problems. They are often able to advise you on the best solution to solve the issue in a speedy and efficient way.
