Replacing Upvc Window Handles
If you follow the right steps, replacing your upvc window handles will be a simple task. Identifying your handle type is vital as is determining the size of the spindle to ensure that you buy the correct replacement.
The first step is to open the window to gain access. Then, remove any screws that are above or below the handle by using an screwdriver with a flat head or butter knife.
Handle Identification
If your double-glazed window handle is broken or has become difficult to operate, it's time to replace it. Replacing a upvc handle is a DIY project that can be accomplished quickly and inexpensively. The most important thing is identifying the handle type and measuring the spindle length to ensure that your new handle is a good fit. Here's how you can do it:
The majority of uPVC window frames utilize either espag handles or cockspurs. Both have an mechanism that slots into the form of a square metal rod within the frame of the window. The size of the rod determines whether the handle is 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 need to open the window so that you can access the screws that secure it to the window frame. They are usually hidden beneath plastic screw covers, which can be removed easily using the flat-head screwdriver. After the screws have been removed the handle should slide off easily.
Make sure you measure the length of your new handle prior to you begin to screw it in. You don't need an handle that is too long or short as it can cause problems in the operation of your windows and lead to premature breakage. To avoid this, take a measurement of the length of the spindle from the base to the end of the handle. You should make sure that the handle you purchase is the same length. You can also buy a handle that has an extra spindle that is either longer or shorter than the one that is required by your window.
Identifying the Spindle
It is essential to determine the kind of handle you have on your upvc windows before you replace them. This will help you find the right replacement and ensure that it is properly fitted. Identifying the type of handle is simple, and it's usually possible to do this by looking at the handles. It's important to check if the window has a lock or not, since this can affect the ease of being able to open and close the window.
If the handle is loose or isn't turning the way it should, then it's time for you to replace it. This is especially true if the window is difficult to open or close, or if it is difficult to unlock. It is important to replace the handle as fast as you can, before it breaks completely. This can be dangerous for children and pets.
Before buying new window handles made of upvc be sure to determine the length of the spindle on the previous handle. It's located on the back of the handle base and it's crucial to do it right so that the new handle can fit properly. The spindle's cross-section should be 7 millimeters.
Once you have determined the spindle's length Move the handle to the same place as the previous one. Make sure it's in the open position, and then insert the spindle in the same hole that the previous one was. Install the new handle in position, and then place the screw caps back in If needed. Before you wrap your tools, test the new window handle to ensure that it functions smoothly and shuts the window correctly. It's also a good idea to apply a silicone-based oil on the handle as well as any moving parts to make sure everything is working as it should.
Unscrewing the Old Handle
There are signs that your window handle needs to be replaced, no matter if it's damaged, loose, or not functioning correctly. For instance, if it's hard to open and close the windows, this is a clear indication that the handle is not working correctly. If the window lock doesn't lock when you turn the lock, it is also a clear indication that the handle should be replaced.
It is essential to be patient and cautious when you change the window handle. This is because the window handles can be very heavy and may fall on you if you're not cautious enough. To remove the old handle you'll have to remove it by removing both of the screws that cover the top and the bottom of the handle. Once these are removed, you can unscrew and then remove the handle from the window.
When it comes to choosing a new handle, you can pick from a variety of different styles, sizes and finishes. However, it's important to determine the type of handle you want and determine the spindle's length because this will determine the degree of compatibility the new handle will be.
The right handle size and type will make it simple to operate and lock the window correctly. The handle fits in a slot in the gearbox of 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 good news is that replacing the handle on your Everest uPVC windows is very simple and takes just five minutes to complete. It's a great option to give your window a visual upgrade and improve its functionality in the same time.
Fitting the New Handle
It is important to use the appropriate size handle when replacing windows made of upvc hardware. A handle that is not correctly sized will not fit snugly against the frame and could suffer excessive stress when used, leading to premature breakage. This is most common when a window is opened and closed repeatedly and forcefully, because a badly fitting handle can easily be affected by an insufficient structural integrity.
The first step involves removing the screw covers placed above and below the handle. This can be done using an instrument that is thin and narrow (such as a butter knife). You will then be able to see two screws that you have to take off. After the screws are removed then you can begin to remove the handle from the window mechanism. Be sure to keep the handle in place so that it does not fall and hurt you.
Before purchasing replacement upvc window handles, it is essential to determine the length of the spindle of the handle that was previously used. this post can be measured either from the part of the handle that goes into the wooden frame or from the length of the handle which protrudes from the back of the base of the handle. This information is needed when selecting a new handle as different types of uPVC handles have different spindle lengths.
Espag handles, which are typically found on uPVC windows, feature a square 7mm spindle that triggers the internal gearbox that operates the multipoint locking mechanism to provide increased security. Cadenza handles come with a blade that slots into the lock mechanism. They can differ in their fixing centres, which range between 58mm and 62mm depending on the design. Cockspur handles have a long nose that locks over the shootbolt rods and may also vary in their fixing centers between 43mm and 58mm.
Test the Handle
It is crucial that the new window handle works correctly when it's replaced. It is important to ensure that the new handle functions correctly. This involves turning the handle to turn on the mechanism and checking that the window locks and closes properly. Luckily, replacing upvc window handles is a simple procedure that anyone can complete. All you require is the right tools and a little patience.
The first step is to open the window to gain access to the screws that hold the handle in place. They are typically hidden under plastic screw covers or caps that can be easily removed using a screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, the old handle will easily fall off from the window frame.
You'll then need to determine the kind of handle that is installed on your window, and measure the spindle. This will allow you to purchase a replacement handle that is identical to the one you have. Espagnolette handles typically feature a spindle through the handle that controls the locking mechanism in the window. They can be left- or right-handed. It's important that you match the handle and lock properly when replacing the handles.
Cockspur handles can be right or left-handed and are generally fixed in the same manner as espagnolette handles. They have a variety of spindle sizes. Once you've measured the spindle and identified the handle, it's straightforward to replace the handle of a Cockspur.
It's a great idea to turn the handle to trigger the lock after screwing it into place. Then, you can replace the screw cap, and verify that everything is working before covering it.