Replacing uPVC Window Handles Switching the handles of windows made of upvc is a simple task The most important thing is to ensure that the new handle is a good fit for the spindle cut out in the window mechanism If you follow the steps below any cockspur handle can fit on most windows The step height of the handle is key What to Do You Look For As time passes, uPVC handles on many windows in the UK can start to show signs wear and tear The handle of the window may become loose or difficult to operate when this happens This is a relatively simple job that can be completed by anyone who is comfortable using 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 The next step is to find the fixing pins or screws that hold the handle in the position it is in They are usually on the inside of the handle They can be removed using the screwdriver and pliers Once the handle has become loose and sagging, gently pull it back from its hinges Then, you will need to locate a replacement handle that is the same dimensions and style This can be done online or in the local DIY store and the process should only take around five minutes using an screwdriver When replacing https//wwwrepairmywindowsanddoorscouk/windsor-windowrepair/ on a uPVC handle It is crucial to consider the step height This is the distance from the base of the handle to the point at which it is placed on the frame of the window This is a common measurement and you should check the height of the step before purchasing the replacement handle There are several sizes depending on the type of handle Inline handles can be found for uPVC windows that have centers of 31mm for lugs, while cockspur handles have lug centres of 43mm Tilt and turn handles are often used on windows made of uPVC, and they have a special design that allows the window to be tilted to allow for ventilation, and then turned to open the window completely The most common uPVC handle breakage is internal cracking instead of a break at the base This makes them difficult to open, and it is therefore essential to ensure that the replacement handle you buy has the same spindle length that your current one Remove the old Handle Incorrectly fitted or damaged window handles could cause your double glazed windows to close or open improperly and could even result in them becoming stuck This can be caused by various factors, including general wear and tear on the handle or corrosion In these cases it is essential to replace the window handle as promptly as you can to avoid further damage or loss of functionality One of the first steps to do when replacing upvc window handles is to remove the old handle from the window Start by removing the screw covered when the handle in closed position After you have removed the screw, you can take off the handle It is possible to make the task simpler by using an electric screwdriver It is also important to note that the handles' screws could be hidden behind plastic caps, therefore it is a good idea to take the Stanley knife to the screw caps and then take them off Once the old handle is removed, you should then look at the square cut on the handle's base to ensure that the new window lock handles will work with it It is crucial to measure the length of the spindle on the old handle and then compare it with the dimensions of the window mechanism spindle cutout There are three types of Upvc handles Espag handles with a central screw that can be turned either left or right and Cranked handles with two screws, and Spade handles which are made of flat arms and can be used on either side of the windows made of upvc Once you have found a suitable replacement, it is simple to screw the handle into position and ensuring that the spindle is placed into the lock mechanism After that, you can then tighten the handle to the window frame The replacement upvc handle should now be secured Take a measurement of the Spindle If you have to replace a handle made of upvc that has fallen, it's likely the spindle holding it in place is damaged or is loose In certain situations you can tighten the spindle with pin or screw In some cases it might be necessary to replace the handle There are several different types of handles made from upvc They include espagnolette handles inline, cockspur handles, and tilt and turn handles Each type of handle is installed and replaced in a different way Before buying a replacement handle it's important to know the dimensions of the one you have This will help ensure that the new handle is of the correct size and fits within the window Fortunately, all handles adhere to industry standards for sizing, so it's quite easy to locate the correct size To determine the size of your handle first, remove it from the window by turning it to the open position You should be able to see the dimensions of the screw or pin that secures the handle Then, use a tape measure or ruler to determine the length of the spindle Once you have determined the length of the spindle, you can buy a new one with the same length When buying a replacement, it is important to be aware of the step height of a window handle made of upvc The step height is measured from the base to the point at which the handle is placed on the frame In general, this is around 21mm for uPVC windows and 9mm for aluminum To make sure that the new handle will fit it, you can drop something into the space to determine how far it extends before it comes into contact with an obstruction Cockspur handles can have different backsets depending on what style of window you install them in Inline espag handles have the standard height of 43mm centre to centre 2 fixing points Cockspur handles have different backsets depending on the window they are placed in This is due to the fact that they have a spur which extends from their handle and locks onto a cockspur wedge-striking plate Fit the New Handle Once you've selected the new handle, make sure it is aligned with the holes for screws on the door Then, secure it with the screws supplied Install the latch lever in the same manner as the handle that you are replacing if you are also replacing the door handle Then, you can reattach the door trim to hide the mounting screws and close the job Tips To take the metal head from the wedge made of wood make sure the handle is held so that its wider end is resting on the floor Then use a hammer to tap on the thin end of the handle Be careful not to scratch the handle or the spindle