Replacing uPVC Window Handles
It is easy to change the handles on windows made of Upvc. The most important thing is 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 will fit most windows. The step height of the handle is crucial.
What to look for
Over time, uPVC handles on many windows in the UK may begin to show signs wear and wear and tear. If this occurs, the window handle could become shaky or difficult to operate, making it necessary to replace it. This is a fairly easy task that can be accomplished by anyone who is familiar with basic hand tools.
The first thing to do is ensure that the handle is securely connected to the window frame and is in an open position. Next, locate the screws or pins that secure the handle. These are usually located on the inside of the handle. They can be removed with the screwdriver and pliers.
When the handle has become loose It is best to gently pull it away from its hinges. It is then time to find a replacement handle with the same design and size. This can be done at the DIY store or on the internet. The process should take about five minutes and 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 between the handle's base and the place it is placed in the frame of the window. This is a typical measurement, and you should verify the step height before ordering the replacement handle.
There are several sizes depending on the type of handle. Inline handles for uPVC windows usually feature lug centers of 31mm There are also varieties of cockspur handles with 43mm centres. Tilt-and-turn handles are commonly found on uPVC windows. They have a specific design that allows the window to be tilted for ventilation and then turned to fully open the window.
The most common breakage in uPVC handles is that they crack internally rather than breaking off from the base section. This makes them difficult to open and is why it is important to make sure that the replacement handle you purchase has the same length of spindle as the one you have.
Remove the handle that was previously used
A poorly fitted or damaged window handles could cause double-glazed windows to close or open incorrectly, and can result in them getting stuck. There are a myriad of reasons including general wear and tear, or corrosion of the handle made of metal. In these situations it is essential to replace the upvc window handle as quickly as you can in order to avoid further damage or loss of function.
One of the first steps to do when replacing window handles made of upvc is to remove the old handle from the window. Start by removing the screw covered by the handle while it is in the closed position. This should reveal another screw that once removed, you can then begin to take off the handle itself. You can make the process easier by using an electronic screwdriver.
It is also worth noting that the handles' screws could be hidden behind caps made of plastic, so it is recommended to take a Stanley knife to the screw caps and then remove them. After the handle has been removed, examine the square cut on the base of the handle to make sure that the new window lock handles will work with it. This is important because you'll need to measure the length of the spindle on the previous handle to make sure it matches the size of the window mechanism and the handle spindle that has been cut out.
There are three kinds of upvc handles: Espag handles with a central screw that can be turned right or left, Cranked handles with two screws and Spade handles that are made of flat arms and can be used on either side of the window made of upvc. When you have a suitable replacement, it is simply a case of screwing the handle into position and making sure that the spindle is placed into the lock mechanism. Once that is done the handle should be secured to the window frame and your replacement window handles made of upvc should be secure.
Measure the Spindle
If you're looking to replace a upvc handle that has collapsed, it's likely the spindle holding it in place is damaged or loose. In some instances you can tighten the spindle using a screw or pin. In other cases it will need to be replaced entirely. There are several different types of upvc handles. They include espagnolette handles inline as well as cockspur handles. tilt and turn handles. Each handle type is installed and replaced in a different way.
Before purchasing a replacement handle it is essential to know the size of the handle that is currently in use. This will help ensure that the new handle is the correct size and will fit correctly within the window. Fortunately, all handles follow industry standard sizing so it's fairly easy to find the correct size.
To determine the size of your handle, first, remove it from the window by turning it to an open position. Then, you should be able see the size of the screw or pin that secures it. Make repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk of a ruler or tape measure to determine the length the spindle is. Once you have determined the length of the spindle, you can purchase a new spindle that is exactly the same size.
The step height of a upvc window handle is another factor to take into consideration when buying an alternative. The step height is measured from the base to the point where the handle sits on the frame. In general, this is approximately 21mm for uPVC windows and 9mm for aluminium. To be sure that the new handle is suitable, you can drop something in the gap to determine how far it goes before it comes into contact with an obstruction.
Cockspur handles typically have different backset heights, based on the type of window they are installed in. Inline Espag handles have the standard height of 43mm centre to centre (2 fixing points). Cockspur handles have different backsets, based on the type of window they are in. This is because they have an extension spur that extends from the handle and locks over a cockspur wedge striker.
Install the new handle
After you have chosen the new handle, make sure it is aligned with the screw holes on the door. Then secure it using the screws supplied. If you're replacing the latch lever the lever can be mounted in a similar way to the door handle. Finally, reattach the door trim to conceal the mounting screws and close off your project.
Tips: To remove the head of the metal from the wedge of wood Hold the handle so that its wider end is resting on the floor. Then use an hammer to tap the thin end of the handle. Be careful not to scratch the handle or the handle spindle.