Replacing Upvc Window Handles
If you follow the right steps, replacing upvc window handles will be a simple task. It is essential to determine the type of handle you have and then measure the spindle in order to find the appropriate replacement.
Start by opening the window to give yourself access. Next, take off any screw covers that are above or below the handle using a flat-headed screwdriver or a butter knife.
Handle Identification
If your double-glazed window handle breaks or has become difficult to operate, it's probably the time to replace it. The replacement of a Upvc handle is a simple DIY project that can be done quickly and cheaply. The most important thing is identifying the handle type and measuring the length of the spindle to make sure that the new handle fits correctly. Here's how you can do it:
Most uPVC window frames use either espag handles or cockspurs. Both have an mechanism that slots into an iron rod that is placed inside the frame of the window. The rod's size determines whether the handle can be locked or not. To test the operation of the handle, try unlocking or turning it loose it and see if you can open or close the window.
To replace a uPVC handle, you will need to lift the windows to access the screws that attach it to the frame. They are usually hidden under plastic screw covers that can be removed easily using a flat-head screwdriver. Once the screws have been removed the handle will fall off easily.
Before you begin screwing into your new handle, be sure that it's the same length as the old one. It is not necessary to have handles that are too long or short because it could cause issues in the operation of your windows and lead to premature breakage. To avoid this, you should measure the spindle length from the base to the end of the handle and make sure that the new handle is the same length. You can also purchase a handle with a longer or shorter length of the spindle as is required by the window you have.
Identifying the Spindle
It's important to identify the handle type on your windows made of upvc before you replace them. This will help you choose the appropriate replacement and ensure that it fits properly. Identifying the handle type is simple, and it's usually possible to do this by looking at the handles. It is also important to know if the window has an locking mechanism or not. This could affect the ease of opening and closing the window.
If the handle is loose or doesn't turn, then it's time to replace it. This is true in particular when the window is difficult to open or close, or if it is difficult to unlock. It is crucial to replace the handle before it is broken completely, since this could be a risk for children and pets.
Find the spindle on the handle prior to purchasing new upvc handles. It's on the back of the handle base and it's crucial to measure it correctly so that the new handle will fit properly. The ideal spindle will have seven millimeters of cross-section.
Once you've determined the length of the spindle then move the handle to the same location as the previous one. Put the spindle into the same hole as the original one. Install the new handle in position, and then place the screw caps back in If needed. Test the new window handle prior to wrapping your tools to make sure it functions smoothly and is closed properly. Use a silicone-based oil to ensure that the handle and all moving parts move smoothly.
Unscrewing the Old Handle
If the handle on your window is broken, loose or simply not functioning properly, there are clear indications that it is in need of replacement. For instance, if it's difficult to open and close the window then this is a clear indication that the handle is not working correctly. If the window lock isn't locking when you turn the lock, it is also a clear indication that the handle should be replaced.
It is important to be patient and careful when you change the handle on your window. Window handles are heavy and can fall on you if you're not cautious. To remove the old handle, you'll need to take off the screw covers on the top and bottom. Once these are removed, you can unscrew and remove the handle from the window.
You can pick from various sizes, styles and finishes when it comes to selecting the right handle. It is crucial to measure the spindle and determine the type of handle you want. This will determine how compatible a handle will be.
Having the right size and type of handle will ensure that it is easy to use and locks the window securely. This is because the handle has a specific slot that it fits into the gearbox inside the window. Moreover, if you try to install a handle that's not the right size it might cause the window to stick or even break. The process of changing the handle on Everest uPVC Windows is easy and takes only five minutes. It's a great method to give your window a visual improvement and increase its function while doing it.
Fitting the New Handle
When replacing upvc window handles it is vital that the correct size handle is fitted. If the handle is not correctly sized will not fit snugly against the frame and may experience excessive stress when being used, which can lead to the handle breaking in a hurry. This is especially true when windows are shut and opened repeatedly and forcefully, because a badly fitting handle can easily suffer from an insufficient structural integrity.
The first step involves removing the screw covers placed above and below the handle using a thin, narrow instrument (such as a butter knife). You will then see two screws that you will need remove. After the screws are removed and you are able to begin removing the handle from the window mechanism. Keep the handle in place to keep it from slipping and causing injury to you.
It is essential to measure spindle length prior to purchasing replacement upvc windows handles. This can be measured either from the portion of the handle that is inserted into the wooden frame, or from the length of the handle that extends from the back of the base of your handle. This information is needed to select a handle as different kinds of uPVC have different spindle sizes.
Espag handles are the most common handles found on uPVC window frames. They have an elongated spindle with a diameter of 7mm that activates an internal gearbox to operate the multipoint locking system for greater security. Cadenza handles feature blades that slot into the lock mechanism and may differ in their fixing centres between 58mm and 62mm depending on the design. Cockspur handles have a long nose that locks over the shootbolt rods. They can also vary in their fixing centres, which range between 43mm and 58mm.
Testing the Handle
When a window handle is replaced it's important to make sure that the new one functions properly. This means making sure that the mechanism is turned on by turning the handle, and making sure that the window shuts and locks properly. Anyone can replace upvc window handles. All you require is the appropriate tools, a bit of patience, and a basic knowledge.
The first step is to open the window to gain access to the screws that secure the handle. These are usually hidden beneath caps or plastic screws that can be easily removed with the screwdriver. After the screws have been removed, the handle will easily fall off of the window frame.
The next step is to determine the type of handle installed on your window, then measure the spindle. This will allow you to purchase an handle that is the same size as the existing one. Espagnolette handles usually come with a spindle that passes through the handle to regulate the locking mechanism within the window. They can be left- or right-handed. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors that you match the handle and lock properly when replacing them.
Cockspur handles are typically fixed in the same way as espagnolette handles but have different spindle lengths and can be left or right-handed. After you've measured the spindle and identified the handle, it's easy to replace the handle with a Cockspur.
It's a great idea to turn the handle to open the lock after you've screwed it into place. You can then replace the cap of the screw and verify that everything is working before covering it.