Replacing Window Handles Replacing your window handles is a great option to enhance the appearance of your home as well as increase the security of your home But, it's crucial to ensure that you have the right handle and lock type for a successful installation Start by measuring the width of your window three times before recording the smallest measurement How to replace the handle on the window It is possible to replace your window handle with a few steps With the proper tools, it's easy to put in your new handle quickly and safely The most important thing is to determine the issue and ensure that the replacement handle is the proper size for your window Once the handle is installed You should test it to ensure that it functions as intended To replace a window handle, first you need to take out the old one This can be done by making sure the window is locked and removing the screw caps from either side of the handle After removing the screws, you can pull the handle away to gain access to the two screws that hold it in position You'll need to determine the length of the spindle of the handle before you buy a replacement of the same length This measurement is the distance between the base of the handle and where the spindle will be within the window frame If you're not sure how to measure the length of the spindle, consult a professional as they will be able to give you a precise measurement Installing the new handle is straightforward after you have taken measurements and replaced the spindle To do this, you'll have to make sure that the window is in an unlocked position and then align the handle with the screw holes Once the handle is placed it is time to insert the screws and then tighten them tightly While this is a easy process, it is important to follow the instructions carefully You could end up with a handle which isn't secure, or isn't functioning as it should In addition, it is important to look for other issues with the window and its operating mechanism before replacing your handle A common cause for broken window handles is the wear down of the mechanism that operates them over time In this instance it's usually not necessary to replace the handle, instead, it is the operator Identifying the problem There are a variety of factors that can prevent a window handle from working It could be that the handle has fallen out of the window and could be fixed with simple steps It could also be that the gears in the handle have worn out and require replacement This is usually done by taking the handle off and inspecting it for signs of wear If your windows have multipoint locks fitted, this is likely to be the cause because it is an issue with the mechanism that locks them, not the handle This is a far more serious issue because it prevents you from opening your windows from the inside and could make it harder to break into your home through the window It is possible that the splines of your crank operator shaft have been stripped and are a common reason for a window not opening The easiest way to check for this is to turn the handle and observing whether there are any indications of the teeth on the crank's operator shaft getting worn If they do, you'll require a replacement for the crank operator You can purchase these on the internet or at a local hardware store or at your local home center A window that isn't opening is usually caused by the crank handle not being "nested" inside the operator cover This is usually caused by dust, dirt and rust that have accumulated over time It could be due to the handles not being lubricated This is usually a straightforward fix that requires an extended set screw available at home centers and hardware stores Be aware that the handles you use on uPVC window types can differ This is because the handles are made in different ways by different manufacturers which can result in them being slightly different in terms of size You must ensure that the handle you purchase is the correct size for your window, and you can do this by measuring the distance between the screw holes in the base of the handle Identifying the new handle Before you put your new handle in place it's important to ensure that you choose the correct type of handle for your window This will not only make sure that your windows are safe however, it will ensure that the handle fits properly and is operating smoothly When choosing a new handle, you should take into consideration the design and size as well as the lock mechanism It is also important to think about the durability of the handle Handles can become damaged in time A common type of handle is the cockspur handle which is found on older uPVC windows The handles come with spindles that go through the handle's base and into the gearbox inside the lock in the window frame The handle is able to turn the internal mechanism, and opens the window when you turn it Cockspur handles can be locked with keys and are extremely simple to use Another kind of handle is the espagnolette handle which is commonly found on the latest uPVC windows They are commonly found on tilt-and-turn windows When you open the windows, you can either extend the operating arm to move it or use the crank Espagnolet handles often feature an advanced locking mechanism that gives additional security If you are replacing an espagnolette handle, you must ensure that the new handle is of the correct step height This is the distance from the nose's base up to the screw Over the years, different step heights were utilized However 21mm is the norm for uPVC and 9mm for aluminum It's time to start Remove the handle that was previously used by removing the window using a screwdriver Make sure you're working in a well-lit space as some screws may be tricky to see If you're having difficulty removing the screws, turn the handle 90° and look for small stickers or caps covering the screws Note https//wwwrepairmywindowsanddoorscouk/peterborough-windowrepair/ at the base after you've removed your old handle This will allow you to buy another spindle that is the same length Getting started When it comes to replacing a window handle, there are a few different options to choose from The first step is to determine the kind of handle you require This will help you choose the right replacement and make sure that the new handle is a good fit Once you know what type of window handle you want then it's time to begin shopping There are a myriad of types and finishes available, so take your time to find one that's perfect for your home Selecting the right handle will ensure that your windows are as safe as they can be and will add a touch of style to your home Installing the handle is easy once you've found it The process is similar to removing the old handle, however ensure that you follow the steps carefully to avoid any problems When you install the new handle, make sure that it is in the unlocked position and line up the spindle hole with the holes for screws already in place After the handle is installed, screw it into position and replace the screws If you have an older uPVC window, you may have to cut the spindle to size before installing it You can use a handsaw or an angle grinder, to do this Wear safety goggles and gloves You can test the handle after installation to ensure that it works just as it should Once you are sure that the handle is functioning properly, you can replace the screw caps and enjoy your new uPVC uPVC window handles Replacing windows handles is a relatively simple task that can be completed by the majority of homeowners With a bit of planning and careful execution, you will get your window handles looking and functioning like new in a matter of minutes If you find that your uPVC handles are damaged replace them as soon as you can to ensure your windows are safe and to avoid further damage