UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a damaged or broken window handle is a relatively easy task and, with the right tools, Replacement Handles For UPVC Windows it can be done quite quickly. It is important to know the type of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before purchasing an alternative.

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

What type of lock and handle do I have?

There are many different types of window handles made of upvc and locks, each with its own benefits and purposes. The type of handle you have will determine the ease to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism functions in the way you want it to. As time passes, and with regular use the upvc handles that are on your windows can become damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some instances, they could even fall completely off. It is important to repair your window handles made of upvc as soon as you notice they are falling off. This will stop possible burglaries and will keep your home safe.

Luckily, replacing your window handles made of plastic is a fairly simple job that can be done by nearly everyone. With a few basic tools and the right information it's a simple process that shouldn't take longer than a couple of minutes. You will need to know the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will help you choose the correct replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most common kind of upvc handle and are usually placed on the side of your window. They are flat and come with a latch which engages the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles have a spindle that goes through the middle of the handle, and into the frame of the window to activate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

They are usually found on older uPVC windows and have a distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have a single screw that is used to secure the handle to the frame and are not as secure as other kinds of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

As opposed to the other upvc handles, tilt and turn handles can be rotated to open the windows and the handle can be tilted to the side to allow ventilation. Generally, they feature a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle. They are available in both left and right-handed versions.

When buying replacement handles for upvc windows - www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk - upvc handles it is essential to check the spindle length as not all are the same size. To test the length of your upvc handle simply drop something into 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 a spindle?

uPVC window handles operate similarly like doors. By turning the handle, you can open a latch in the frame. The latch opens the window, to allow it to be closed and opened. The handles could be damaged, particularly if they're often used or are exposed to harsh conditions. It is possible to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they're not able to operate it correctly.

There are several different types of uPVC handles to choose from, comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. They are designed in a variety ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle style uses an entirely different spindle for locking the window mechanism. This is why it is important to know the kind of handle you have installed on your uPVC window to get the correct replacement windows for it.

The base section of the handle will inform you what type of uPVC it is. There should be a "snap-in cover' over one screw that holds the handle base in the correct position. After removing this and you'll be able to see the screw that holds the base of the handle in position. Once both screws are removed you should be capable of pulling the handle away from the uPVC window.

After removing the uPVC handle, remove it from the locking mechanism. Take careful note of the length of the spindle as you'll need to make sure that you buy an alternative that is the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.

The spindle wears down and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This could be due to damage from constant use or loosening of the locking mechanism or even rust over time. If this occurs, 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?

Over time and through everyday use, window handles may become damaged or broken, and if this happens, it is essential to fix them as soon as possible to ensure the safety of your home. Fortunately, replacing a damaged or worn handle is a simple job that can be completed in less than one minute and doesn't require any specialist tools.

To remove the handle, you must first remove the screw that is located at the base of the handle. Once the screw is removed, the handle will be removed from the base section. There will be a second screw that is located at the bottom of the handle's base, and it can be removed too. After both screws are removed, the handle can be removed from the base of the window.

After the handle has been removed, you can take the new handle and line up the fixing holes with the holes currently in the window frame. There might be a small sticker or caps on the new handle, so take them off the caps if needed, and then put the handle in place. Once the handle is in place, it is important to test whether it functions by turning the handle and making sure that the lock mechanism activates.

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

After you have put in the new handle, place the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Once the handle is securely fixed and secured, replace the snap-in cover and the screw cap (if appropriate). The handle is now ready to use by opening and closing the window a few times to make sure that it is working correctly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

Switching your uPVC window handle isn't a big deal and the process is simple. All you require is a screwdriver, and a little bit of patience. The first thing to do is to ensure that the old handle is not locked and then take out any screws that are visible. you can also replace them with screw caps if required. After you have removed the handle, you will need to note the length of spindle that extends from the back. This is vital as it will determine what kind of handle to buy.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular kind of handle that is used on uPVC windows. They have a spindle that runs through the handle and operates a locking mechanism inside the window frame. When the handle is turned, it opens the latch on the window and allows it to open. In regular use and time, espagnolette handles may be damaged.

Cadenza handles are another type of uPVC window handle that is commonly used on tilt and turn windows. They have a protruding knife that operates a multiple-point locking mechanism within the window. They are generally more secure than espagnolette handles as they can only be opened from the inside. They can be replaced by the same method as espagnolette handles, however you must ensure that the new handle has an angled blade as opposed to a flat one.

After you have chosen the right handle, simply align the new handle to existing screw holes prior to screwing it in place. After that, you should put the screws back on and make sure your new handle is operating correctly. This is done by shifting the handle from the locked position to the unlocked and vice versa a few times. It may be worth contacting an expert to determine whether you can solve any problems. They can often advise you on the best approach to solve the issue in a fast and efficient way.