10 Replacing Upvc Window Handles Tricks All Experts Recommend
Replacing Upvc Window Handles
Replacing the window handles of upvc is an easy job if you follow the right steps. Identifying your handle type is essential as is measuring the spindle to ensure you buy the correct replacement.
Start by opening the window to gain access. Next, look for screw covers above or below the handle. take them off using a butter knife or a screwdriver with a flat head.
Handle Identification
It's time to replace your double-glazed window handle if the handle breaks or becomes difficult to operate. It's good news that replacing a upvc window handle is a DIY project that can be accomplished quickly and inexpensively. It's important to identify the type of handle you have and then measure the spindle size in order to ensure that the new handle will fit correctly. Here's how to do it:
The majority of uPVC windows have espag or cockspur handles. Both have mechanisms that slot into an iron rod that is placed inside the frame of the window. The size of this rod determines the function of the window handle and whether or not it can lock. Try turning the handle loose or locking it to determine if it opens or closes the window.
To replace a uPVC window handle, you need to open the window so that you can see the screws that hold it to the frame. They are usually hidden under plastic screw covers, which are easily removed with a flat-head screwdriver. Once double glazing window handles replacements are removed the handle will fall off easily.
Before you start screwing into the new handle, be sure that it's the same length as the old one. You don't want to be with an handle that is either too short or too long, as this can cause problems with the operation of your window and could lead to premature breakage. To avoid this, you should determine the length of the handle from the base to the tip of the handle. You should make sure that the handle you purchase is the same length. You can also buy the handle with a spindle that is longer or shorter than the one required by your window.
Identifying the Spindle
It is essential to determine the handle type on your windows made of upvc before you replace them. This will help you locate the right replacement and ensure that it fits correctly. The process of identifying the type of handle is easy and usually it's possible to do this by looking at the handles themselves. It's also a good idea to check if the window has locks or not, as this could affect how easy it is to open and close the window.
If the handle is slack, or does not turn, then it's time to replace it. This is true in particular if the window is difficult to open or close, or if it is difficult to unlock. It is essential to replace the handle as fast as you can, before it completely breaks. This could be dangerous for children and pets.
Measure the spindle of the old handle before buying new upvc handles. It's on the back of the handle base and is crucial to measure it correctly so that the new handle will fit correctly. The cross-section of the spindle should be 7 mm.
Once you've established the length of the spindle Move the handle to the same place as the previous one. Put the spindle into the same hole as the original one. Screw the new handle in place, and then replace the screws, if necessary. Before wrapping your tools, try the new window handle to make sure that it functions smoothly and closes the window properly. It's also a good idea to apply a silicone-based oil on the handle as well as any moving parts to ensure everything moves like clockwork.
Unscrewing Old Handle
There are indications that your window handle requires to be replaced, no matter if it's broken, loose, or not functioning properly. If it is difficult to open or close the window, this indicates that the handle is not able to work properly. If the window lock does not lock when you turn the lock, this is also a clear sign that the handle needs to be replaced.
It is essential to be patient and careful when you change the window handle. This is because the window handles can be quite heavy and could fall on you if you're not careful enough. To take off the old handle, you'll need to unscrew it by removing both of the screw covers at the top and the bottom of the handle. Once you've removed these you can unscrew the handle, and then remove it from the window.
You can choose between a variety of sizes, styles and finishes when it comes to choosing a new handle. But, it's essential to identify the handle type and determine the spindle's length because this will determine the degree of compatibility the new handle will be.
The proper size and style will make it simple to operate and lock the window correctly. This is because the handle is fitted with a particular slot that it can fit into the gearbox in the window. Additionally, if you attempt to fit a handle that's not the right size, it could cause the window stick or even break. It's good to know that changing the handle on your Everest uPVC windows is simple and takes just five minutes to do. This is a great method to improve the appearance of your window and function.
Fitting the New Handle
When it comes to replacing upvc window handles, it is essential that the right size of handle is installed. If the handle isn't the right size, it will not fit snugly into the frame. This can lead to excessive stress and premature breaking. This is especially true when a window is opened and closed repeatedly and forcefully, as the handle that is not properly fitted can easily be affected by an insufficient structural integrity.
The first step is to remove the screw cover caps that are situated above and below the handle by using a thin, narrow tool (for example a butter knife). This will reveal two screws which you'll have to take off. Once the screws have been removed, you are now able to begin dismantling the handle from the window mechanism. Be sure to keep hold of the handle to ensure that it doesn't fall and hurt you.
Before buying replacement upvc window handles, it is necessary to measure the spindle length of the handle that was previously used. It can be measured from the portion of the handle that is inserted into the frame of the wooden one or from the length of the handle that protrudes from the back of the base of the handle. This information is needed when selecting the new handle since different types of uPVC handles have different spindle lengths.
Espag handles are the most common on uPVC window frames. They have an elongated spindle with a diameter of 7mm which activates an internal gearbox which operates the multipoint locking system to provide more security. Cadenza handles feature a blade that slots into the lock mechanism and may differ in their fixing centers between the 58mm and 62mm range, depending on the design. Cockspur handles have a long nose which locks over the shootbolts rods. Their fixing centres may vary from 58mm to 43mm.
Testing the Handle
When the window handle is changed, it's important to make sure that the new handle functions properly. It is crucial to make sure that the new handle operates properly. This involves turning the handle to turn on the mechanism, and then ensuring that the window locks and closes correctly. Anyone can replace upvc window handles. All you need are the appropriate tools and patience.
The first step is opening the window to gain access to the screws that hold the handle in place. They are usually hidden under plastic caps or screw covers which are easy to remove with the aid of a screwdriver. After the screws have been removed, the handle will easily be removed from the window frame.
You'll need to identify the type of handle installed on your window, then measure its spindle. This will enable you to buy the handle that is the same size as the existing one. Espagnolette handles are usually fitted with a spindle which passes through the handle to control the locking mechanism within the window. These can be either left or right-handed, so it is essential to match the handedness of the handle and lock when it's being replaced.
Cockspur handles can be right or left-handed and are typically fixed in the same manner as espagnolette handles. They have a variety of spindle sizes. After you've measured the spindle and identified the handle, it's straightforward to replace the handle with a Cockspur.
Once you've screwed the new handle into the place it's a good idea test it by turning it to activate the lock. You can then replace the screw cap, and make sure everything is working before covering it.