UPVC Window Handle ReplacementIt's simple to repair a broken window handle with the right tools. It's important to know what kind of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before purchasing an alternative.
Older uPVC windows feature handles with cockspurs, which have a spur that protrudes to the lock of a wedge cockspur striker plate. These can be either left or right-handed and need to match when replacing.
What kind of lock or handle do I have?
There are a myriad of windows locks and handles made of upvc each with its own advantages and purposes. The type of handle that you have will determine if your locking mechanism is efficient and if it is easy to open windows. As time passes and with regular use, window handles made of upvc may become damaged or worn out, making them less effective and secure. In some instances they might even fall off completely. It is essential to fix the handles on your window made of upvc as soon as you see they are falling off. This will stop possible burglaries and ensure that your home is secure.
It's a simple job that anyone can complete. You will need a few tools, but with right knowledge, it is an easy task that will take only a couple of minutes. You must be aware of the type of lock or handle you have on your
sash window replacement. This will allow you to choose the appropriate replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
They are typically found on the outside of the window. They have a flat design and have a latch that engages with the locking mechanism of the window frame when turned. Inline upvc handles have an elongated spindle that runs through middle of the handle into the window frame in order to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
They are typically found on older uPVC window frames. They have an unusual hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are secured to the frame of the window by a single screw and are less secure than other kinds of window handle.
Tilt and Turn Handles
The tilt and turn handles differ from other upvc handles in that they can be turned to open the window and then lowered into the window to ventilate. They feature a 7mm spindle at the back and are available both in left and right-handed versions.
When you are purchasing
windowpane replacement handles for upvc, it is important to measure the spindle's length since not all of them are identical in size. To determine the length of your upvc handle simply drop something in the middle of the hole, and then measure how far down it goes before it comes into contact with an obstruction. This is the maximum spindle size that will fit in your windows.
What is the spindle?
uPVC window handles work similarly as doors. By turning the handle, you are able to open a latch in the frame. The latch opens the window, to allow it to be closed and opened. However, in some cases, handles can be damaged, particularly if they are regularly used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. You may have to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they're not functioning correctly.
There are many different kinds of uPVC handles available comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. These handles are designed to fit in the uPVC frames in different ways. Each handle uses a specific spindle to secure the mechanism into the window. This is why it is important to identify the type of handle you have installed on your uPVC window so you can get the correct
replacement window Panes.
You can find out what kind of uPVC handle you are using by looking at the base section of your handle. There should be a "snap-in' cover over one screw which holds the handle base in the correct position. Take it off and you should be able see the second screw at the opposite end of the base portion of the handle. Once both screws are removed you should be in a position to pull the handle away from the uPVC
window replacement glass.
After you have removed the uPVC handle, remove it from the locking mechanism. Take note of 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 locking device.
The most common issue with window handle problems with uPVC is that the handle spindle gets worn out and cannot longer work with the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage due to continuous use, or even an unreliable locking mechanism. 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 take off the old handle?
Through time and regular usage, window handles could be damaged or destroyed, and if this happens it is important to repair them as quickly as possible to ensure the safety of your home. Fortunately, replacing a damaged or worn handle is a fairly easy task that can be completed in less than an hour and doesn't require any specialized tools.
To take off the handle, you first need to remove the screw at the base of the handle. After this screw is removed, the handle can be removed from the base. There will be a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle's base and it is able to be removed too. Once these two screws have been removed, the handle can be removed from the
window panes replacement's base.
After removing the old handle and fixing holes, align the holes of the new handle with the holes already present in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle remove it if needed and screw the handle into the appropriate position. It is important to check that the handle is working after it has been installed. Turn the handle around and make sure that the lock mechanism is in place.
Espag handles come with spindles that extend out of the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism on the frame of the window. Cadenza windows feature blades with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have a long nose that is able to hook over either the outer frame or the transom bar cross member in the window.
Once you have installed the new handle, place the spindle inside the window lock and tighten it. Once the handle is firmly fixed then replace the snap-in cover and the screw cap (if necessary). When the handle is ready for use, open and close the window a couple of times to make sure it is working correctly 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 very simple. All you need is a screwdriver, and a little bit of patience. First, make sure that the handle is not locked. Remove any screws visible. You can also replace them using screw caps. After you have removed the handle, you'll need to take note of the length of the spindle which extends from the back. This is crucial as it will determine what kind of handle you will need to purchase.
Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle for uPVC windows. The spindle runs through the handle to activate the locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. The handle releases the latch and allows the window to open. During regular use and over time, handles made of espagnolette can become damaged.
Cadenza handles are a form of uPVC handle that is usually employed with tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that operates a multiple-point locking mechanism within the window. They are usually more secure than espagnolette handles as they can only be opened from the inside. You can replace them with the same method as you would do for handles made of espagnolette, but make sure the new handle is angled, not flat.
After you have picked the correct handle, you can align the new handle with the existing screw holes before fixing it with screws. After that, you should put the screw covers back on and make sure your new handle is operating properly. This is accomplished by shifting the handle from the locked position to the unlocked and the reverse direction several times. It might be worthwhile to speak with an expert to see if you can resolve any problems. They can offer advice on how to solve the issue in a quick and effective way.
