A Cheat Sheet For The Ultimate For Upvc Window Handle Replacement
UPVC Window Handle Replacement
It's easy to repair a broken window handle using the appropriate tools. However, it is essential to know your type of handle and the spindle's length prior buying the replacement.
Older uPVC windows have cockspur window handles which have an extension spur that can the lock of a wedge cockspur striker plate. They can be right-handed or left-handed and must match when replaced.
What type of lock or handle do I have?
There are many upvc window locks and handles each with its particular advantages and uses. The type of handle that you choose will determine if your locking mechanism is effective and also if it is simple to open windows. With time and regular use, the upvc handles on your windows can get worn out and damaged. This makes them less secure and effective. In some cases they may even fall completely off. If you notice that your upvc window handles have been removed, it's essential to fix them as soon as you can. This will prevent possible break-ins, and keep your house safe.
The good news is that replacing your window handles made of upvc is a relatively simple task that can be completed by everyone. You will need some basic tools, but with the appropriate knowledge, it's simple and should only take a couple of minutes. It is important to know the type of lock or handle you have on your window. This will allow you to choose the right replacement upvc window handles.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
They are typically located on the sides of the window. They are flat and have 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 then into the window frame to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
These handles are usually found on older uPVC window frames and feature distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles are fitted with a single screw that secures the handle to the frame and aren't as secure as other kinds of window handles.
Handles that turn and tilt
In contrast to other handles made of upvc, tilt and turn handles can both be rotated to open the window and tilted inwards to allow ventilation. In general, they have a 7mm spindle at the back of the handle and are available in both left and right-handed versions.
It is crucial to determine the spindle size when buying new upvc handles. Not all of them are exactly the same size. To test the length of your handle made of upvc, simply drop something in the middle of the hole, and then measure how far down it goes before it comes into contact with an obstruction. This is the largest spindle size that will fit in your windows.
What is spindles?
uPVC window handles operate in a similar way like doors. By turning the handle, you can activate a latch inside the frame. The window then opens and closed. However, sometimes handles can be damaged, especially if they are regularly used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This could mean that you have to replace your uPVC windows handles as they might not operate the window properly in the future.
There are many types of uPVC handle options, such as Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed to fit into the uPVC frames in various ways. Each handle uses a specific spindle to secure the mechanism into the window. This is why it is essential to know what type of handle you have on your uPVC window so you can find the right replacement window handle for it.
The base section of the handle will tell you what kind of uPVC it is. There should be a'snap in' cover over one screw which holds the handle base in place. When you remove this cover, you will be able observe the second screw that holds the base of the handle in position. 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. Take note of the length of the spindle. You will need to purchase a replacement with the same length as the original handle and locking device.
The spindle wears out and becomes inoperable with the locking mechanism. This could be due wear and tear from continuous use, a loosening of the locking mechanism, or even rust over time. If this occurs, it is required 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 can be damaged or Upvc Window Handle replacement destroyed over time. It is important to fix them as soon a possible to ensure your safety. It is easy to replace a damaged or worn handle. The task can be completed in less than a minute without the need of special tools.
To remove the handle, you must first remove the screw located at the base of the handle. After the screw is removed, the handle can be pulled away. There will be another screw located at the bottom of the handle base, and this can be removed too. After these two screws are removed, the handle will be detached from the window's base.
After removing the old handle and align the fixing holes of the new handle with the holes that are already in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle remove it if needed and screw the handle into place. It is important to check that the handle works once it is installed. Turn the handle over and make sure the lock mechanism is in place.
Espag handles feature spindles that extend out of the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism on the frame of the window. Cadenza windows come with blades with cut-outs that slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have a long nose that hooks over either the frame's outer or transom bar cross member in the window.
After you have installed the new handle, slide the spindle inside the window lock and tighten it. Once the handle is firmly fixed, replace the'snap in' cover and the screw cap (if necessary). The handle is now ready to use by opening and closing the window several times to ensure that it works well and securely.
How do I put in the new handle?
Changing your uPVC window handle isn't difficult and the process is actually very simple. You'll need a screwdriver and a bit of perseverance. First, make sure the handle is not locked. Then remove any screws visible. You can also replace them with screw caps. Once the handle is removed and you are ready to take a note of the length of the spindle that extends from the back of the handle. This is crucial since it will determine the type of handle you'll require to purchase.
Espagnolette handles that are made of uPVC are the most popular type of handle. The spindle passes through the handle to operate the locking mechanism inside the window frame. Once the handle is turned it opens the latch on the window and allows it to open. When used regularly and over time, handles made of espagnolette can be damaged.
Cadenza handles are another type of uPVC window handle that is commonly used on tilt and turn windows. They feature an elongated blade that functions as a multipoint locking mechanism within the window. They are more secure than an espagnolette handles since they only open from the inside. They can be replaced with the same method as espagnolette handles but you must ensure that the new handle has an angled blade, as opposed to flat ones.
After you have picked the right handle, simply align the new handle to existing screw holes prior to screwing it into place. Then, put the screw covers back on and test that the new handle is working properly. This is accomplished by shifting the handle from the locked to the unlocked position and the reverse direction a few times. If you encounter any issues, it might be worthwhile contacting a professional to see if they can assist in resolving the issue. They can provide advice on how to solve the issue in a timely and efficient way.