How To Outsmart Your Boss On Upvc Window Handle Replacement
UPVC Window Handle Replacement
It's easy to repair a broken window handle using the appropriate tools. But it's essential to know your type of handle and its spindle length before buying a replacement.
Older uPVC window handles have a spur that protrudes and locks over the cockspur wedge striker. They can be left- or right-handed and should match when replaced.
What type of lock and handle do I have?
There are many kinds of window panel replacement handles made from upvc and locks, each with their own benefits and purposes. The type of handle that you choose will determine if your locking mechanism is effective and if it's easy to open the windows. As time passes, and with regular use, the upvc handles on your windows may get worn out and damaged. This makes them less secure and effective. In some cases, they may even disappear completely. It is important to repair your window handles made of upvc as soon as you begin to notice they are falling off. This will help to stop potential burglaries and ensure your home is secure.
It is a good thing that replacing your window handles made of plastic is a fairly simple job that is achievable by everyone. With a few basic tools and the right knowledge it's a straightforward process that shouldn't take more than a couple minutes. To get started, you will need to determine the kind of lock and handle that you have on your upvc window to help you to find the ideal replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
They are typically found on the outside of the window. They are flat and come with an open latch that is connected to the locking mechanism of the window frame. Inline upvc handles also come with a spindle that goes through the center of the handle, and into the frame of the window to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and feature an distinctive hook-shaped design. Cockspur handles have a single screw that secures the handle to the frame of the window and are not as secure as other types of window handles.
Handles that turn and tilt
The tilt and turn handles are different from other upvc handles because they can be turned for opening the window, and then lowered into the window to allow air circulation. They typically have a 7mm spindle at the back of the handle and are available in left and right-handed versions.
When purchasing replacement handles made of upvc It is crucial to verify the length of the spindle since not all of them are the same size. To determine 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 meeting an obstruction. This is the maximum spindle size that will fit in your windows.
What is a spindle?
uPVC window handles function similarly as doors. By turning the handle, you can operate a latch within the frame. This opens the window so it can be closed and opened. However, sometimes these handles can become damaged, particularly if they are regularly used or exposed to harsh weather conditions. This could mean that you have to replace your uPVC handles on windows since they may not operate the window properly for a long time.
There are many different types of uPVC handles, including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed in a variety ways to fit into uPVC frames. Each handle type uses an individual spindle to lock the window mechanism. It is crucial to know the type of handle installed on your uPVC windows to ensure that you replace it with the right one.
You can check what type of uPVC handle you are using by inspecting the base of the handle. A snap-in covers should be over the screw that holds the base of the handle in position. Take it off and you should be able to see the second screw on the opposite side of the base portion of the handle. Once both screws have been removed then you should be able to take the handle out of the uPVC.
Once you have removed your uPVC window handle, you have to carefully unscrew the spindle you have removed from the locking mechanism. Be sure to note the length of the spindle as you'll need to ensure that you buy a replacement glass windows that has the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.
The spindle wears down and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This can be due to damage from constant use, a loosening of the locking mechanism, or even rust over time. If this happens, you'll need to replace both the window handle and locking mechanism in order to restore the full functionality of 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 soon as possible to ensure your safety. The good news is that replacing a worn or damaged handle is a simple job that can be accomplished in less than an hour and doesn't require any specialist tools.
The first step to remove the old handle is to remove the screw located on the top of the base of the handle. After the screw is removed, the handle can be pulled away. Another screw will be situated at the base of the handle. This can also be removed. After these two screws have been removed, the handle can be detached from the window's base.
After the handle has been removed, take the new handle and line up the fixing holes with the holes currently in the window frame. There may be a tiny sticker or caps on the new handle, so remove these if necessary and then screw the handle into place. It is crucial to verify that the handle is working after it is put in place. Turn the handle and make sure that the lock mechanism is activated.
Espag handles come with an extra spindle that is protruding from the handle and slot into a multipoint locking mechanism in the frame of the window. Cadenza double glazed windows replacement have an edge with cut-outs which slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have a long nose that hooks over either the frame's outer or the transom bar cross member inside the window.
Once you have the new handle in place, slide the spindle inside the lock in the window and then tighten it. Once the handle is securely fixated and secured, replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if applicable). Now that the handle is ready to use, open and close the window a few times to ensure it works properly and securely.
How do I put in the new handle?
Changing your uPVC window handle isn't difficult and the process is simple. All you need is an screwdriver and a little bit of patience. The first step is make sure that the old handle is in the unlocked position and then take out any screws that are visible, you can also replace these by screw caps if you need. Once the handle is removed, you need to make a note of the length of the spindle that protrudes from the back of the handle. This is crucial since it will determine the kind of handle that you will need to purchase.
Espagnolette handles on uPVC are the most sought-after type of handle. The spindle is inserted into the handle to control the locking mechanism inside the window frame. The handle opens the latch, allowing the window to open. When used regularly and over time, handles made of espagnolette can be damaged.
Cadenza handles are a different kind of uPVC window handle commonly used on tilt and turn windows. They feature a protruding blade that operates the multipoint locking mechanism inside the window. They are usually more secure than espagnolette handles as they can only be opened from the inside. You can replace them using the same method that you would for espagnolette handles, but make sure the new handle is not angled and flat.
Once you have determined the right handle to purchase then you can align the new handle with the screw holes, and then screw it into the appropriate position. Then, put the screw covers on and test your new handle. You can accomplish this by moving the handle back and forth from the locked position to the unlocked one for a few times. It might be worthwhile to speak with an expert to determine whether you can solve any problems. They will often be able to guide you on the best solution to solve the issue in a speedy and efficient manner.