UPVC Window Handle ReplacementIt's simple to repair a damaged window handle using the appropriate tools. It is important to identify the kind of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before you purchase the replacement.
Older uPVC window handles have a spur that extends and is locked over a cockspur wedge striker. These can be right-handed or left-handed and should match when replaced.
What kind of lock and handle do I have?
There are a variety of window handles made of upvc and locks, each having their particular advantages and uses. The kind of handle you choose will determine how easy it is to open your windows and whether or not the locking mechanism works in the way you want it to. As time passes and with regular use, window handles made of upvc can become damaged or worn out, making them less secure and effective. In some cases, they may even fall off completely. If you notice that your upvc window handles have been removed, it's crucial to fix them as soon as possible. This will stop potential burglaries and protect your home from burglary.
Luckily, replacing your window handles made of plastic is a simple task that is achievable by nearly everyone. You'll need some basic tools, but with the proper knowledge, it's simple and should only take a couple of minutes. To begin you'll need to determine the type of handle and lock you have on your window, which will help you find the perfect
replacement window panes.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
These are the most common kind of upvc handle and are usually located on the outside of your window. They are flat and feature a latch which engages the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles come with a spindle that runs through the middle of the handle into the window frame in order to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
They are usually found on older uPVC windows and feature distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles are held to the window frame by one screw, and are less secure than other types of window handle.
Tilt and Turn Handles
The tilt and turn handles are different from other upvc handles in that they can be turned for opening the window, and then lowered into the window to allow air circulation. They typically feature a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle and are available in left and right-handed versions.
It is crucial to determine the spindle's size prior to purchasing a new upvc handles. Not all of them are the exact same size. To determine the length of your handle made of upvc, simply drop something into the middle of the hole, and then measure how far down it goes before meeting an obstruction. This is the length of the spindle that will be suitable for your window.
What is the spindle?
uPVC window handles function in a similar way like doors, turning the handle to open an opening inside the frame. The window can then be opened and closed. However, sometimes handles can be damaged, particularly when they are frequently used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This can leave you needing to replace your
upvc window lock replacement handles for windows as they might not be able to operate the window correctly anymore.
There are a variety of uPVC handles available comprising Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. They are designed to fit inside the uPVC frames in different ways and each handle type uses a specific spindle to lock the mechanism into the window. It is important to identify the kind of handle that is installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with a suitable one.
You can check what type of uPVC handle you have by looking at the base section of your handle. A snap-in cover should be over the screw that holds the base of the handle in position. Take it off and you should be able to see the second screw on the opposite side of the base of the handle. Once both screws have been removed, you should be able 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 note of the length of the spindle. You'll 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 uPVC window handle problems is that the handle spindle gets worn out and cannot longer function properly with the locking mechanism. This could be due to wear and tear from continuous use, a loosening of the locking mechanism, or even rust over time. If this happens, you'll 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?
In the course of time and daily usage, window handles could become damaged or broken and if this happens, it is important to repair them as soon as possible to ensure the security of your home. The good news is that replacing a worn or damaged handle is a fairly simple task that can be carried out in less than a minute and doesn't require any specialized tools.
The first step to remove the old handle is to take off the screw located at the top of the handle base. After this screw is removed, the handle will be pulled away from the base. A second screw will be located at the base of the handle. This too can be removed. Once both of these screws are removed, the handle can be completely detached from the base portion of the window.
Once the old handle is removed, take the new handle and line up the fixing holes with the holes that are present in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle remove it if necessary and then put the handle back in place. Once the handle is set, it is essential to check that it is working by turning the handle and making sure that the lock mechanism activates.
Espag handles come with an extra spindle that is protruding from the handle and slot into a multipoint locking mechanism in the
glass window replacement near me frame. 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 installed the new handle, slide the spindle inside the window lock and tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if appropriate) once the handle is securely fixed. Now that the handle is in use, simply open and close the window a couple of times to ensure it works correctly and securely.
How do I install the new handle?
It's not difficult to alter the handle on your uPVC windows. The process is easy. All you need is a screwdriver, and a bit of perseverance. The first thing you need to do is to ensure that the handle you have previously used is not locked and then take out any screws that are visible, you can replace them by screw caps if you need. 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 the type of handle that you will require to purchase.
Espagnolette handles are the most commonly used type of handle for uPVC windows. The spindle passes through the handle to operate the locking mechanism within the window frame. When the handle is turned it releases the latch on the window, allowing it to open. When used regularly and time, espagnolette handles may be damaged.
Cadenza handles are a second type of uPVC window handle commonly used on tilt and turn windows. They have an elongated blade that functions as an interlocking mechanism that is multipoint within the window. They are more secure than espagnolette handles because they are able to open from the inside. You can replace them using the same procedure as you would do
glass for window replacement handles made of espagnolette, but make sure the new handle is not angled and flat.
Once you have decided on the correct handle to purchase You can simply align the new handle with the existing screw holes and then screw it in place. Then, you should put the screws on and test your new handle. This is accomplished by moving the handle from locked to the unlocked position and vice versa several times. If you encounter any issues, it could be worthwhile contacting a professional to determine if they can help resolve the problem. They can offer advice on how to fix the issue in a timely and efficient manner.