25 Surprising Facts About Upvc Window Handle Replacement
UPVC Window Handle Replacement
It is easy to repair a damaged window handle using the appropriate tools. It's important to know the type of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before purchasing the replacement.
Older uPVC window handles have a spur which protrudes and locks over the wedge striker for cockspur. They can be right or left-handed and have to match when replacing.
What type of lock and handle do I have?
There are a variety of window handles made of upvc and locks, each with its particular advantages and uses. The type of handle that you have will determine whether or not your locking mechanism is effective and if it's easy to open the windows. As time passes, and with regular use the upvc handles that are on your windows could be damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and effective. In some cases they could even disappear completely. If you notice that your upvc window handles have fallen off, it's essential to fix them as soon as possible. This will help to stop potential burglaries and protect your home from burglary.
Luckily, replacing your upvc window handles is a fairly simple job that is achievable by almost everyone. You will need a few basic tools, but with the proper knowledge, it's simple and should only take a few minutes. To get started you'll need to identify the type of lock and handle you have on your upvc window, which will help you identify the best replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
They are the most popular kind of upvc handle and are typically located on the other side of your window. They are flat and feature an opening that engages the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles also come with a spindle that runs through the middle of the handle and then into the frame of the window to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
They are typically found on older uPVC window frames and have distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles are held to the window frame by only one screw and are less secure than other types of window handle.
Tilt and Turn Handles
The tilt and turn handles differ from other handles made of upvc in that they can be turned for opening the window, and then tilted into the window to allow air circulation. In general, Upvc window Handle replacement they have a 7mm spindle on the back of the handle and are available in left and right-handed versions.
When you are purchasing replacement handles for upvc windows handles for upvc, it is important to check the spindle length since not all of them are the same size. To test the length of your upvc replacement window handles handle, simply drop something into the middle of the hole, and then measure the distance it travels before it comes into contact with an obstruction. This is the maximum spindle size that will fit in your windows.
What is spindles?
uPVC window handles work in a similar way like doors. By turning the handle, you are able to operate a latch within the frame. This opens the window so it can be shut and opened. However, in some cases, handles can be damaged, especially when they are frequently used or exposed to extreme weather conditions. You may need to replace the handles on your uPVC window if they're not able to operate it correctly.
There are a variety of uPVC handle options, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. These handles are designed in a variety of ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle style uses an individual spindle to lock the window mechanism. It is important to identify the type of handle you have installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with a suitable one.
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 which holds the handle base in place. Remove this and then you should be able to see the second holding screw located at the opposite end of the base portion of the handle. Once both screws have been removed and you are able to pull the handle from the uPVC.
After taking off the uPVC handle, carefully remove it from the locking mechanism. Take careful note of the length of the spindle, as you'll need to ensure that you purchase one that is the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.
The main issue with most window handles made of uPVC is that the spindle becomes worn-out and is unable to longer operate the locking mechanism. This could be due damage caused by constant use or a loosening of the locking mechanism or even rust over time. When this happens it is necessary to replace the window handle and locking mechanism to restore the full functionality to your uPVC windows.
How do I remove the handle that was previously attached?
Window handles can be damaged or even broken over the course of time. It is crucial to fix them as soon as you can to ensure your safety. Fortunately, replacing a worn or damaged handle is a relatively simple job that can be completed in less than a minute and doesn't require any specialist tools.
To remove the handle, first remove the screw that is located at the base of the handle. After this screw is removed, the handle will be removed from the base. Another screw will be located at the bottom of the handle. It can also be removed. After these two screws are removed, the handle can be detached from the base of the window.
Once the old handle is removed, grab the new handle and line up the fixing holes with the holes present in the window frame. There might be a small sticker or caps on the new handle, so take off them if needed and then screw the handle into the frame. It is crucial to verify whether the handle functions after it is installed. Turn the handle around and ensure that the lock mechanism is working.
Espag handles come with a spindle that protrudes from the handle and slots into a multipoint locking mechanism within the window frame. 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 either the frame's outer or transom bar cross member in the window.
After you have put in the new handle, insert the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if appropriate) once the handle has been firmly fixed. The handle is now ready to use by opening and closing the window several times to check that it is working well and securely.
How do I install the new handle?
It's not difficult to alter the handle on your windows made of uPVC. The process is very simple. You'll need an screwdriver and a bit of perseverance. First, make sure that the handle is not locked. Then, remove any screws visible. You can also replace them using screw caps. After removing the handle you'll need to record the length of spindle that extends from the back. This is important because it will determine the kind of handle to buy.
Espagnolette handles are the most commonly used type of handle for uPVC windows. The spindle passes through the handle to operate the locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. When the handle is turned, it releases the latch on the window, allowing it to open. Over time and through regular use, espagnolette handles can be damaged or destroyed which is why it is essential to locate a replacement.
Cadenza handles are a second type of uPVC window handle, which is typically used on tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that operates 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 with the same method that you would do for handles made of espagnolette however, ensure that the new handle is angled, not flat.
After you have chosen the correct handle, simply align the new handle with the existing screw holes prior to screwing it into place. After that, you can put the screws on and test your new handle. You can accomplish this by dragging the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked one for a few times. It may be worth contacting an expert to determine whether you can solve any problems. They are often able to advise you on the best approach to resolve the issue in a quick and efficient manner.