Replacing uPVC Window Handles
It is easy to change the handles on windows made of Upvc. It is important to make sure that the new handle is a good fit for the spindle that was cut out of the window mechanism.
If you follow the steps below any cockspur handle can fit on most windows. The step height of the handle is important.
What to Look For
As time passes, uPVC handles on many windows in the UK begin to show signs of wear and wear and tear. If this occurs, the handle could become shaky or difficult to operate, making it necessary to replace it. This is a relatively easy task that is achievable by anyone who is comfortable with basic hand tools.
The first step is to ensure that the handle is firmly attached to the window frame, and is in an open position. Next, locate the screws or pins that secure the handle in place. They are usually on the inside of the handle. They can be removed with the screwdriver and pliers.
When the handle has become loose and sagging, gently pull it back from its hinges. Then, you will need to locate a replacement handle of the same style and size. This can be done at an online store or in a DIY store. The procedure should take just five minutes and requires a screwdriver is all you need.
The most important thing to consider when replacing a uPVC window handle is the step height. This is the distance from the base of the handle to the point at which it rests on the window frame. This is a standard measurement, and you should verify the height of the step prior to ordering an replacement handle.
Depending on the kind of handle you choose there are various sizes to choose from. Inline handles are available for uPVC windows with lug centres of 31mm, while cockspur handles have centers of lugs of 43 millimetres. Tilt-and-turn handles are commonly found on uPVC Windows. They have a special design that lets the window be slid down to let in air and then rotated to fully open the window.
The most frequent breakage in uPVC handles is that they crack inside rather than breaking off from the base section. This makes them difficult to open and therefore it is crucial to ensure that the replacement handle you purchase has the same spindle length as the one you have.
Remove the old Handle
Incorrectly fitted or damaged window handles could cause your double glazed windows to close or open improperly and could even result in them getting stuck. This can be caused by various factors, including general wear and tear on the handle or corrosion. In these cases, it is vital to replace the window handle as promptly as you can to prevent further damage or loss of functionality.
One of the first things that you should do when replacing the handles on your windows made of upvc is to remove the old handle from the window. Start by removing the screw covered with the handle when it is in a closed position. This should reveal another screw and once removed, you can then begin to remove the handle itself. It is a good idea to employ an electric screwdriver to accomplish this, as it makes the task easier and quicker.
Be aware that screws may be hidden beneath plastic caps. It is best to remove the covers with the help of a Stanley knife. Once the old handle is removed, you must look at the square cut out on the handle's base to make sure that the new window lock handles are compatible with it. It is essential to measure the spindle length on the handle that was used and compare it to the dimensions of the window mechanism spindle cutout.
There are three kinds of Upvc handles: Espag handles with a central screw that can be turned either left or right, Cranked handles with two screws and Spade handles, which are made of flat arms and can be used on either side of the window made of upvc. Once you have found a suitable replacement, it is just a matter of screwing the handle into place and making sure that the spindle is inserted into the lock mechanism. Once you have done this you can tighten the handle onto the window frame. The replacement upvc handle should now be secured.
Take a measurement of the Spindle
If you need to replace a Upvc handle that has fallen, it's likely the spindle holding it in place is damaged or is loose. In certain situations, you can tighten the spindle by using pins or screws. In other cases it will need to be replaced entirely. There are a few different kinds of window handles made of upvc. They include espagnolette handles that are inline as well as cockspur handles. tilt and turn handles. Each type of handle is installed and replaced in a different manner.
It is essential to measure the current handle before purchasing a replacement. This will help ensure that the new handle is the right size and will fit correctly into the window. Fortunately, all handles adhere to industry standards of sizing making it fairly easy to find the correct size.
To determine the size of the handle, turn the window to the open position. You should then be able to see the size of the screw or pin that secures it. Then take a tape measure or ruler to determine the length of the spindle. Once you have the length of your spindle, it is possible to buy a replacement of exactly the same size.
When you are looking to replace a handle, it is important to take into consideration the step height of an window handle made of upvc. The step height is measured from the base to the point at which the handle is placed on the frame. This is usually about 21mm or 9mm for aluminum and uPVC. To be sure that the new handle will fit, you can drop something into the gap to check how far it goes before meeting an obstruction.
Repair My Windows And Doors handles often have different backset heights depending on the style of window they're installed in. Inline Espag handles have an average height of 43mm from centre to centre (2 fixing points). Cockspur handles however, have different backset heights depending on the shape of the window they're in. This is due to the fact that they have a spur that extends from their handle and locks onto a cockspur wedge striking plate.
Install the new handle
When you've chosen a new handle, make sure you align it to the screw holes in the door and fix it using the screws provided. If you're replacing the latch lever it can be put in similarly to the main door handle. After that, attach the door trim to conceal the mounting screws.
Tips: To remove the metal head from a wooden wedge place the handle on the floor so that its wide end is on the floor. Then, use to tap the narrow end. Be careful not to damage the handle or spindle.