"Ask Me Anything:10 Answers To Your Questions About Upvc Window Handle Replacement
UPVC Window Handle Replacement
It is easy to repair a broken window handle using the appropriate tools. It is important to know your type of handle and its spindle's length prior buying a replacement.
Older uPVC windows feature handles with cockspurs, which have an extension spur that can secure a wedge-shaped cockspur striker plate. These can be either left or right-handed and need to match when replacing.
What kind of lock or handle do you have? I have
There are many kinds of upvc window handles and locks, each having their own benefits and purposes. The type of handle you own will determine whether or not your locking mechanism is effective and if it is easy to open the windows. As time passes and with regular use, upvc window handles may become damaged or worn out, rendering them less secure and effective. In certain instances, they might even fall completely off. It is crucial to fix your upvc window handles immediately if you notice them falling off. This will prevent possible break-ins and will keep your home secure.
It is a good thing that replacing your window handles made of upvc is a relatively simple task that can be completed by everyone. You'll require a few tools, upvc window handle replacement but with appropriate knowledge, it's a straightforward process that should only take a couple of minutes. To get started you'll need to identify the type of lock and handle you have on your upvc window to help you find the perfect replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
They are typically located on the side of the window. They are flat and feature an open latch that is connected to the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles also come with a spindle that runs through the center of the handle and then into the frame of the window to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
They are usually found on older uPVC windows and feature an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have a single screw that is used to secure the handle to the frame and aren't as secure as other types of window handles.
Handles that can tilt and turn
The tilt and turn handles differ from other handles made of upvc in that they can be rotated for opening the window, and then tilted into the window to allow air circulation. Generally, they have a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle. They are available in left and right handed versions.
It is important to measure the spindle's size prior to purchasing a replacement handles made of upvc. Not all of them are the exact same size. To test the length of your upvc handle, simply drop something in the middle of the hole and then measure how far down it goes before meeting an obstruction. This is the maximum size of spindle that will fit your windows.
What is a spindle?
uPVC window handles function similarly as doors. By turning the handle, you are able to activate a latch inside the frame. The window is then opened and closed. However, in some cases, handles can be damaged, especially if they are regularly used or exposed to extreme weather conditions. This can lead to the need to replace your uPVC handles for windows as they might not operate the window properly anymore.
There are a variety of uPVC handle options, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed to fit into the uPVC frames in a variety of ways, and each type of handle has a particular spindle that is used to lock the mechanism into the window. It is crucial to know the kind of handle that is installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with a suitable one.
The base of the handle will inform the type of uPVC it is. A snap-in cover should be over the screw that holds the handle's base in place. Take it off and you should be able see the second holding screw at the opposite end of the base portion of the handle. Once both screws have been removed then you should be able to pull the handle from the uPVC.
Once you have removed your uPVC window handle you need to remove the spindle that was previously attached to the locking mechanism. Take careful note of the length of the spindle as you'll need to ensure that you buy one that is 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 to corrosion, damage due to constant use or an unreliable locking mechanism. If this occurs, it will be necessary to replace the window handle and locking mechanism to restore full functionality to your uPVC windows.
How do I take off the handle from the previous one?
Window handles can become damaged or destroyed over time. It is important to fix them as quickly a possible to ensure your safety. It is easy to replace a damaged or worn handle. The job can be accomplished in under a minute without the need for any special tools.
To remove the handle, you first need to remove the screw located at the base of the handle. After the screw is removed, the handle will be pulled away. There is another screw located at the bottom of the handle's base and it can be removed too. After these two screws have been removed, the handle can be removed from the window's base.
Once the old handle is removed, grab the new handle and line up the fixing holes with the holes present in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle remove it if required and screw the handle into place. It is important to check whether the handle functions after it is installed. Turn the handle and ensure that the lock mechanism is working.
Espag handles come with a spindle which protrudes from the handle and slot into the multipoint locking mechanism of 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 hooks over the frame's outer or transom bar cross-member inside the window.
After you have installed the new handle, place the spindle into the window replacement lock and tighten it. Once the handle is securely fixated and secured, replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if appropriate). Once the handle is in use, you can open and close the window a few times to ensure it works correctly and securely.
How do I fit the new handle?
Changing your uPVC window handle isn't difficult and the process is simple. All you need is a screwdriver and a small amount of patience. First, ensure that the old handle is unlocked. Then remove any visible screws. You could also replace them with screw caps. After removing the handle, you'll need to take note of the length of the spindle which extends from the back. This is important as it will determine the kind of handle you'll need to buy.
Espagnolette handles are the most commonly used kind of handle that is used on uPVC windows. They have a spindle which is inserted into the handle and acts as an internal locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle opens the latch and allows the window to open. As time passes and with regular use, espagnolette handles may be damaged or damaged and it is necessary to find an alternative.
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 multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are more secure than the espagnolette handles since they only open from the inside. They can be replaced with the same procedure as espagnolette handles however you must make sure that the new handle has a curved blade instead of one that is flat.
Once you have determined the right handle to purchase then you can align the new handle to the existing screw holes and then screw it into place. Then, put the screw covers on and test the new handle. This is accomplished by moving the handle from locked to the unlocked position and vice versa several times. It might be worthwhile to speak with an expert to determine whether you can solve any problems. They can advise you on how to resolve the problem in a timely and effective way.
