The 3 Biggest Disasters In Upvc Window Handle Replacement History

UPVC Window Handle replacement Window pane

It is easy to repair a broken window handle using the appropriate tools. It is important to know your type of handle and the spindle length before buying the glass replacement on windows.

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

What kind of lock and handle do I have?

There are a myriad of upvc window locks and handles, each with its particular advantages and uses. The type of handle that you have will determine if your locking mechanism is effective and also if it is simple to open the windows. As time passes, and with regular use the handles made of upvc on your windows could be damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and effective. In certain instances, they might even fall completely off. If you find that your window handles have fallen off, it's essential to repair them as quickly as you can. This will stop possible burglaries and ensure that your home is secure.

It's a simple job that anyone can complete. You'll require a few tools, but with appropriate knowledge, it's a straightforward process that should only take a couple of minutes. You must know the kind of handle or lock that you have on your window. This will help you choose the appropriate replacement.

Inline Espagnolette Handles

They are usually found on the side of the window. They are flat and feature a latch which engages the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles also have a spindle that runs through the center 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 feature a distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles are attached to the frame of the window with a single screw and are less secure than other varieties of window handle.

Handles that turn and tilt

As opposed to the other handles made of upvc the tilt and turn handles can be turned to open the windows and tilted inwards for ventilation. They typically have a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle. They are available in both left and right-handed versions.

It is essential to know the spindle size when buying new upvc handles. There are a few that are the exact same size. Drop something in the middle of the hole to check the length. This is the length of the spindle that will fit in your window.

What is a spindle?

uPVC window handles function in a similar way to doors, by turning the handle to operate a latch inside the frame. This unlocks the window to allow it to be shut and opened. These handles can be damaged, especially if often used or are exposed to harsh 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 kinds of uPVC handles available including Espag, Cockspur and Spaded handle options. They are designed to fit inside the uPVC frames in different ways. Each handle uses a specific spindle to lock the mechanism fitted to the window. It is essential to determine the kind of handle that is installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with a suitable one.

You can determine the type of uPVC handle you have by taking a look at the base of the handle. A snap-in cover is over the screw that holds the handle's base in position. When you remove this cover and you'll be able to observe the second screw that holds the handle base in place. After both screws have been removed and you are able to pull the handle from the uPVC.

After removing the uPVC handle, carefully unscrew it from the locking mechanism. Make note of the length of the spindle since you'll need to ensure that you buy a replacement that has the same length as your original handle and locking mechanism.

The most common issue with window handles made of uPVC is that the handle spindle gets worn-out and is unable to longer work with the locking mechanism. This could be due damage caused by constant use, 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 the full functionality to your uPVC windows.

How do I take off my old handle?

In the course of time and daily usage, window handles could become damaged or broken, and when this happens, it is important to repair them as quickly as possible to ensure the safety of your home. It is good to know that replacing a worn or damaged handle is a fairly simple job that can be completed in just over a minute and doesn't require any specialist tools.

To remove the handle, first remove the screw that is located at the bottom of the handle. Once the screw has been removed, the handle will be pulled away. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle's base and it is able to be removed too. Once both of these screws are removed, the handle can be completely detached from the base of the window.

After removing the old handle and align the fixing holes of the new handle with the existing holes in the window frame. If there is a sticker or cap on the new handle, take it off it if required and screw the handle in place. Once the handle is in place it is important to test whether it functions by turning the handle and ensuring that the lock mechanism is activated.

Espag handles come with a spindle that protrudes from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism in the frame of the window. Cadenza windows have blades with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have an extended nose that hangs over the frame's outer or transom bar cross member inside the window.

Once you have the new handle in place, slide the spindle into the window lock and then tighten it down. Once the handle is securely fixated, replace the'snap in' cover and the screw cap (if applicable). The handle is now ready for use, so try opening and closing the window a few times to check that it works correctly and securely.

How do I install the new handle?

It's not difficult to change the handle on your windows made of uPVC. The procedure is simple. All you need is an screwdriver and a bit of patience. First, make sure that the handle is not locked. Then, remove any screws visible. You could also replace them with screw caps. After the handle has been removed, you need to make a note of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial as it will determine the kind of handle that you will need to buy.

Espagnolette handles are the most popular type of handle for uPVC windows. They feature a spindle that is inserted into the handle and operates a locking mechanism inside the window frame. The handle opens the latch and allows the window to open. In regular use and time, espagnolette handles may become damaged.

Cadenza handles are a type of uPVC handle that is typically used in tilt and turn windows. They have a protruding knife that works with a multiple-point locking mechanism within the window. They are more secure than an espagnolette handles because they are able to open from the inside. They can be replaced by the same procedure as espagnolette handles, however you will need to make sure that the new handle has a curved blade, as opposed to a flat one.

Once you have determined the correct handle to purchase, you can simply line up the new handle to the existing screw holes and then screw it into place. Then, put the screw covers back on and test that your new handle is operating properly. You can do this by moving the handle between the locked position to the unlocked a few time. It may be worth contacting an expert to see how you can fix any problems. They can advise you on how to fix the issue in a quick and efficient manner.