Tips For Replacing a Window Handle The replacement of your window handle is a simple task that can be completed from the comfort of your own home Follow these guidelines to ensure an elegant and smooth finish Start by removing the screw covers to expose the screws inside the uPVC window handle Take a measurement of the spindle to be sure you're getting the right size replacement 1 Measure the Spindle Length It's important that you have the right size spindle when replacing windows handles https//wwwrepairmywindowsanddoorscouk/ashford-windowrepair/ is because it can determine how tight or loose the handle is and whether it will lock correctly in the frame of the window The spindle is a metal shaft that connects to the handle and to the lock in the window frame The spindle can be found in the standard cross-section of 8mm for industry or the more traditional versions of 9mm Modern industry standards are 8mm, but it wasn't always the case It is important to confirm the measurements before buying the handle you want to purchase The most efficient method to determine the spindle length is to take off the handle you have already installed, this can be done by turning it into the open position, then unscrewing the two screws which could be hidden behind plastic caps that require removal that hold the handle After the handle is removed, measure the distance from the base to the point at which it ends This will give you the measurement needed to buy a replacement There are plenty of options to consider when choosing the right window handle from sleek chrome that can fit in with a modern home, to traditional burnished brass that looks wonderful in restored Georgian rooms or even the more quaint Tudor cottages with curled monkey tail latches The options are endless but the most important thing to do is select a style that is suitable for your home Espag handles are typically fitted to uPVC window frames and are always the exact same size with a 43mm center Cockspur handles vary between 58mm and 62mm, but luckily there are replacements available for both sizes Cadenza window handles have distinct dimensions because they have an bent blade that is used to operate a multi-point lock mechanism inside the window Another aspect to consider when selecting a new window handle is knowing which hand you need to use This is determined by what hand you use to open the door Inline window handles aren't handed and can be used for left or right handed windows Cranked window handles are only used for windows that open in one direction 2 Take the handle off Whether the handle is damaged or just worn out the handle of a window that falls off is a major source of frustration The good news is that replacing the uPVC window handle is a straightforward job that you can do yourself All you need is a few basic tools and some time to complete the process You must first open the window, and then ensure that it's not locked Then, take off the screws that hold the handle in place After these have been removed, you can start to work on removing the handle itself The handle is connected to a spindle inside the window frame Based on the type the handle is secured with a screw or pin The most popular handles are the inline Espagnolette and the cockspur handles Both of these kinds of handles are employed on casement windows, including aluminium windows They can be locked using keys to prevent the opening of the window from outside or you can lock them by turning the handle clockwise To take the handle off, you will need to use an screwdriver with a flat blade in order to remove the clip that holds the handle in place After the clip has been released, the handle will be able to slide off the spindle Once the old handle is removed, you'll need determine the length of the spindle and ensure that the new handle will fit Once you have the right size, you are able to put the new handle in place It is crucial to ensure that the handle is securely attached and that it is rotating in the correct direction clockwise when the handle is open and counterclockwise if handle is closed It is important to make sure that the handle has not been placed upside down Finally, you should replace the screw cover caps Once you've completed this step, you are able to test your handle to make sure it is working correctly Also, you should test the locking mechanism by moving the handle to the locked position, and then returning it to the locked position 3 Remove the Screws A uPVC window handle is an integral component of every home and is usually the first item to begin to show signs of wear and wear or damage This could be due natural elements, regular use, or even damage caused by criminals trying to gain access to your home A simple repair can fix the issue and stop it from repeating itself uPVC handles could also be difficult to remove if the locking mechanisms aren't working properly It is often possible to fix the issue by replacing the multipoint locking mechanism instead of the whole handle This can save you money After you've removed the old handle, you'll have to remove the screws fixing it to the base These screws are usually found on the inside of the handle base It could be necessary to use a screwdriver accomplish this Be cautious not to over tighten the handle, as this can cause it to loosen Then you will need to find the screws or pins that keep the handle in place Again these are likely to be located on the inside face of the handle base and you'll need an screwdriver or a pair of pliers to remove them If you wish to, you can replace the screw caps and test the handle to make sure it is working correctly When you're ready to install the new handle, simply line up the spindle with the cut-out in the window mechanism and screw in the right position If you wish to replace the screw covers make sure that the handle is in a slack position and that the screws are securely secured You're done Now you can enjoy the newly installed window handle I hope this will enable you avoid having to pay for costly window and door replacement services in the future If you'd like more help with this or any other aspect of your uPVC windows, don't hesitate to contact us 4 Fit the New Handle Whether you're replacing a broken handle or simply making it more modern the procedure is simple and can be completed in just a few steps Identifying the type of window handle, measuring its spindle length and knowing what tools you'll require to complete the task are key Safety is always the top priority when working with windows and tools Make sure you follow the steps and make sure that you have an appropriate handle to use To begin, locate the screws that hold the window handle in place Remove these while firmly gripping the handle to prevent it from falling down and causing injury Once the screws are removed they can be repositioned in a safe place to be replaced in the future After you have removed the handle, you can now begin to install your new one It is important that the handle fits perfectly to ensure it functions correctly and locks the window in place Then you need to slide the metal bar that is square on the handle into the window mechanism hole Now that your new handle is in place, the last thing to do is replace the screw caps and verify that it functions If you aren't satisfied with the result or if your window doesn't open and close as it should, the next step is to contact our experts who will be able to assist you The majority of UK homes have uPVC Windows As such, many will require replacement at some point due to wear and tear or breakage The process is relatively straightforward and can be carried out by anyone with a little experience in DIY The most important factor in the success of the process is to ensure that you're using a handle that is compatible with your window's size and design Contact us if aren't sure of the kind of handle you require They'll be able to assist you with all of the options