A The Complete Guide To Replacing Upvc Window Handles From Start To Finish
Replacing Upvc Window Handles
If you follow the proper steps, replacing your upvc window handles will be a straightforward job. The identification of the type of handle is essential as is measuring the spindle in order to ensure you buy the correct replacement.
Begin by opening the door to give yourself access. Then, look for screw covers that are above or below the handle and take them off using a butter knife or a flat-headed screwdriver.
Handle Identification
It's time to replace your double-glazed window handle if it breaks or becomes difficult to operate. It's good news that replacing a window handle made from upvc is a simple DIY project that can be done quickly and cost-effectively. It is essential to identify the type of handle and the size of the spindle in order to ensure that your replacement handle fits correctly. Here's how you can do it:
Most uPVC window frames use either cockspurs or espag handles. Both handle types have a mechanism that slots in a square metal bar located inside the frame of the window. The size of the rod determines whether the handle can be locked or not. Try making the handle loose or locking it to determine if it can open or close the window.
To replace a uPVC window handle, you must open the window to see the screws that hold it to the frame. These are usually hidden underneath plastic screw covers that are easy to prise off using a flat head screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, the handle should come out easily.
Before you begin putting into your new handle, make sure that it's the same length as the old one. locking window handles do not want to end up with a handle that is too short or too long, as this can cause problems with the operation of your window and could lead to a premature breakage. To avoid this, you should determine the length of the handle from the base to the top of the handle. You should make sure that the handle you purchase is the same length. You can also purchase the handle with a larger or shorter length of the spindle as is required by the window you have.
Identifying the Spindle
It is important to determine the kind of handle you have on your upvc windows before you replace them. This will help you choose the appropriate replacement and ensure that it fits correctly. The process of identifying the type of handle is simple and is usually able to do this by looking at the handles themselves. It's also a good idea to note whether the window has locks or not, as it can impact how easy it is to open and close the window.
If the handle is slack or does not turn it, it's a clear indication that it's time to get it replaced. This is especially true when the window is difficult to open or close or difficult to unlock. It is important to replace the handle as quickly as you can, prior to when it is completely broken. This can be dangerous for children and pets.
Find the spindle on the handle prior to purchasing new upvc handles. It's located on the back of the base of the handle and it's crucial to measure it correctly so that the new handle can be a perfect fit. The ideal spindle will have seven millimeters of cross-section.
Once you've worked out the spindle length, take the new handle and place it into the same position that the old one was. Put the spindle into the same hole as the previous one. Install the new handle in place, and then replace the cap screws if required. Before you wrap your tools, test the new window handle to make sure that it functions smoothly and closes the window in a timely manner. Use a silicone-based lubricant to ensure that the handle and all moving parts operate smoothly.
Unscrewing the Old Handle
Whether the handle on your window is broken or loose, or just not functioning properly, there are clear cut signs that it needs replacing. If it is difficult to open or close the window, this means that the handle does not work properly. If the window lock isn't locking when you turn the lock, it is a clear indication that the handle needs to be replaced.

It is essential to be patient and cautious when changing the window handle. The window handles are heavy and can fall on you if you're not cautious. To remove the old handle, you'll have to remove it by removing both screws at the top and the bottom of the handle. After you have removed them, you can remove the handle and then remove it from the window.
When you are looking to purchase a new handle, you are able to choose from a range of different types, sizes and finishes. But, it's essential to identify your handle type and also measure the length of the spindle because this will determine the degree of compatibility the new handle will be.
The right handle size and design will make it simple to operate and lock the window correctly. The handle is inserted into a slot in the gearbox of the window. Additionally, if you attempt to fit a handle that's not the correct size, it might cause the window to be stuck or even break. Switching the handle on Everest uPVC Windows is easy and takes only five minutes. It's a great option to give your window an aesthetic improvement and increase its performance while doing it.
Fitting the New Handle
When replacing the handles on windows made of upvc it is vital that the correct size handle is used. If the handle is not the correct size, it will not fit snugly into the frame. This could cause excessive stress and premature breaking. This is particularly true when a window has to be shut and opened repeatedly.
The first step is to get rid of the screws that cover the cap caps that are situated between the handle and above it by using a thin, narrow tool (for example a butter knife). This will reveal two screws that you'll have to take off. Once the screws have been removed, you can start dismantling the handle from the window mechanism. The handle should remain in place to stop it from falling and injuring you.
It is important to measure spindle length prior to purchasing replacement handles for windows made of upvc. This can be accomplished by measuring the length of the spindle of the handle that was previously used. This information is needed when selecting a handle since different kinds of uPVC have different spindle sizes.
Espag handles are the most commonly used handles found on uPVC window frames. They feature a square spindle of 7mm that activates an internal gearbox which operates the multipoint locking mechanism for increased security. Cadenza handles are made with an edging blade that fits into the lock mechanism. The fixing centre could vary from 58mm to 62mm, according to the design. Cockspur handles have a long nose that locks over the shootbolt rods. They may also vary in their fixing centers between 58mm and 43mm.
Test the Handle
It is essential that the new window handle works properly after replacing it. This means ensuring that the mechanism is activated by turning the handle, and making sure that the window closes and locks correctly. Luckily, replacing upvc window handles is a simple procedure that anyone can perform. All you need are the proper tools and patience.
The first step is to open the window to get access to the screws that hold the handle in place. These are usually hidden beneath caps or screws made of plastic and can be easily removed using the screwdriver. After the screws are removed, the handle should easily come away from the window frame.
You'll then need to determine the type of handle you have installed on your window, and measure its spindle. This will allow you to purchase a replacement handle that is exactly the same size as the handle that is currently in use. Espagnolette handles are usually fitted with a spindle which passes through the handle to regulate the locking mechanism inside the window. They can be right or left-handed, so it's important to correctly match the hands of the lock and handle when it's being replaced.
Cockspur handles are typically fixed in the same manner as espagnolette handles but have different spindle lengths and can be left- or right-handed. Once you've measured the spindle and identified the handle, it's simple to replace the handle of a Cockspur.
It's a good idea to turn the handle to open the lock after screwing it into place. After that, you can replace the cap screw and ensure that everything is in working order before covering it.