UPVC Window Handle Replacement

Replacing a damaged or broken window handle is a easy process, and, with the right tools, it can be done quite quickly. It is important to identify the kind of handle you have and its spindle size 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. They can be right-handed or left-handed and must match when replaced.

What kind of lock and handle do I have?

There are many upvc window locks and handles, each with its distinct advantages and functions. The type of handle that you have will determine if your locking mechanism is efficient and also if it is simple to open windows. With time and regular use, the upvc handles on your windows may be damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and less effective. In some cases, they may even disappear completely. If you find that your window handles have been removed, it's important to repair them as quickly as possible. This will help prevent burglaries and ensure that your home is safe.

The good news is that replacing your upvc window handles is a fairly simple job that can be completed by almost anyone. You'll require a few tools, but with right knowledge, it is simple and should only take a few minutes. You must be aware of the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will help you choose the right glass replacement for windows near me.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

These are the most commonly used type of upvc handle and are usually placed 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 also come with a spindle that runs through the centre of the handle, and into the window frame to operate the latch.

Cockspur Handles

These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames and have an unusual hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have a single screw that holds the handle to the frame and are not as secure as other types of window handles.

Tilt and Turn Handles

In contrast to other upvc handles, tilt and turn handles can be turned to open the window, and the handle can be tilted to the side to allow ventilation. They have a 7mm spindle at the back and are available both in right-hand and left-hand versions.

It is essential to know the size of the spindle when purchasing a new upvc handles. Not all of them are exactly the same size. To test the length of your upvc handle, simply drop something in the middle of the hole, and then measure the distance it travels before meeting an obstruction. This is the longest spindle length that will fit in your window.

What is a spindle?

uPVC window sash replacement handles work in a similar way to doors, by turning the handle to open 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 when they are frequently used or exposed to extreme weather conditions. You may have to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they are not able to operate it correctly.

There are many different types of uPVC handles, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed to fit inside the uPVC frames in various ways, and each type of handle has a particular spindle that is used to lock the mechanism fitted into the window. This is why it is important to identify the type of handle is installed on your uPVC window to get the correct replacement windows glass for it.

The base of the handle will tell you what kind of uPVC it is. A snap-in cover should be over the screw that holds the handle's base in position. Once you remove this you will be able to observe the second screw that holds the handle base in position. After both screws have been removed then you should be able to take the handle out of the uPVC.

After you have removed the uPVC handle, carefully remove it from the locking mechanism. Be sure to note the length of the spindle, as you'll need to ensure that you purchase an alternative that is the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.

The spindle wears out and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This could be due wear and tear from continuous use or a loosening of the locking mechanism or even rust over time. If this occurs, it is necessary to replace the window handle and the locking mechanism to restore complete functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I take off the old handle?

Window handles are susceptible to being damaged or destroyed over time. It is crucial to fix them as quickly a possible to ensure your safety. Fortunately, replacing a worn or damaged handle is a relatively simple job that can be carried out in just over a minute and doesn't require any specialist tools.

To take off the handle, you first need to remove the screw located at the bottom of the handle. After the screw is removed, the handle will be pulled away. 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. After both screws are removed the handle can be removed completely from the base portion of the window.

After the handle has been removed, grab the new handle and align the fixing holes with the holes currently in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle, remove it if required and put the handle back in the appropriate position. It is crucial to verify that the handle works once it is installed. Turn the handle around and ensure that the lock mechanism is working.

Espag handles have an elongated spindle that extends from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism inside the window frame. Cadenza windows feature blades with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism, while Cockspur handles have a long nose that hooks over either the outer frame or the transom bar cross member in the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, insert the spindle into the window lock and then tighten it. When the handle is fixed, replace the'snap in' cover and the screw cap (if appropriate). The handle is now ready to use by opening and closing the window several times to make sure that 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 procedure is easy. You only need a screwdriver and a bit of patience. First, ensure that the handle that you are replacing is unlocked. Remove any visible screws. You can also replace them with screw caps. After you have removed the handle, you will need to note the length of the spindle which extends from the back. This is crucial as it will determine what type of handle you need to purchase.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle for uPVC windows. The spindle passes through the handle to control the locking mechanism in the frame of the window. The handle opens the latch, allowing the window to open. When used regularly and time, espagnolette handles may be damaged.

Cadenza handles are another type of uPVC window handle, which is typically used on tilt and turn windows. They feature an elongated blade that functions as the multipoint locking mechanism inside the window. They are usually more secure than handles made of espagnolette because they are only accessible from the inside. They can be replaced using the same method as you would for espagnolette handles however, make sure that the new handle is not angled and flat.

Once you have decided on the correct handle to purchase then you can line up the new handle with the existing screw holes and then screw it in the appropriate position. Then, put the screw covers back on and make sure the new handle functions correctly. You can perform this by dragging the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked one several times. It is possible to contact an expert to see if you can resolve any issues. They can offer advice on how to solve the issue in a quick and effective way.