Replacing uPVC Window Handles It is simple to swap the handles on upvc windows The important thing is to make sure that the replacement handle fits the spindle carved out in the window mechanism If the steps below are followed correctly, any cockspur handle should be able to fit into most windows The height of the step of the handle is key What to Do You Look For Many of the windows in the UK come with uPVC handles Over time, they may begin to show signs of wear and tear If this happens, the window handle may become loose or difficult to operate, which makes it essential to replace it Anyone who is comfortable with basic hand tools can accomplish this fairly simple task The first step is to make sure that the handle is securely connected to the window frame and in a position that is open The next step is to locate the fixing pins or screws that keep the handle in the position it is in They are usually located on the inside face of the handle and are removed with a screwdriver or pliers When the handle is loose, it can be removed from its hinges by gently pulling off The next step is to locate a replacement handle with the same design and size This can be done at an online store or in a DIY store The process should take only five minutes, and you will need a screwdriver The most important thing to consider when replacing a uPVC window handle is its step height This is the distance between the handle's base and the place it is placed in the frame of the window It is generally an accepted measurement, however it is essential that you determine the step height of your current handle before ordering a new one There are a variety of sizes based on the kind of handle Inline handles for uPVC windows generally have 31mm lug centres There are also varieties of cockspur handles that have 43mm centres Tilt-and-turn handles are common on uPVC windows They have a specific design that allows the window to be slid down to let in air and then rotated to fully open the window The most common uPVC handle cracks are internal, instead of a break at the base This makes them difficult to open and therefore it is crucial to ensure that the replacement handle you buy has the same length of spindle as the one you have Remove the Old Handle Incorrectly installed or damaged window handles could cause double-glazed windows to open or close improperly and could even result in them becoming stuck There are a myriad of reasons including general wear and tear or corrosion of the handle made of metal In these instances it is crucial to locate replacement handles made of upvc immediately to prevent further damage and loss of functionality When replacing upvc windows handles it is recommended to remove the handles that were previously installed from the window To do this, start by removing the screw that is covered when the handle is in its closed position Once you have removed that screw, you are able to remove the handle It is possible to make the task easier by using an electronic screwdriver It is also important to be aware that screws can be hidden in plastic caps It is best to remove the covers using a Stanley knife Once the old handle is removed, you should then examine the square cut out on the base of the handle to ensure that the new window lock handles are compatible with it This is important because you will need to measure the length of the spindle on the previous handle to ensure it is the same size as the window mechanism and the handle spindle cut out The various types of window handles made of upvc are Espag handles, which feature a central screw that can turn left or right; Cranked handles with two screws, and are typically found on tilt and turn upvc windows as well as Spade handles, that have an arm with a flat surface and can be used on either side of the window It is easy to replace the handle once you've located one that is suitable Just screw it into place, and make sure the spindle is inserted correctly in the lock mechanism Once you have done this you can tighten the handle onto the window frame The new upvc handles should now be secure Measure the Spindle If you're replacing a upvc window handle that has come off, it is likely because the spindle holding it in place is loose or damaged In some cases this can be fixed using a screw or pin to secure it In some instances it might be necessary to replace the handle There are several types of upvc window handles There are three types of handles inline espagnolette, cockspur, and tilt-and-turn Each handle type has its own procedure for installing and replacing the handle Before you purchase a new handle, it is essential to know the dimensions of the handle that is currently in use This will ensure that the handle fits the window in a proper manner and be the correct size Luckily, all handles conform to industry standards of sizing making it fairly easy to find the correct size To measure the size of your handle, first, take it out of the window by turning it back to the open position Then, you should be able to determine the size of the screw or pin that secures it Then take 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 exactly the same size The step height of a window handle is also a factor to take into consideration when buying replacements The step height is the distance from the bottom of the handle to the point at which it is placed on the frame This is usually around 21mm or 9mm in aluminium and uPVC To be https//wwwrepairmywindowsanddoorscouk/kettering-windowrepair/ that the new handle will fit the gap, drop something into the gap to determine how far it goes before it comes into contact with an obstruction Cockspur handles may have different backsets depending on what kind of window you want to install them in Inline the espag handle heights range from 43mm from centre to center two fixing points Cockspur handles however they have different backsets dependent on the design of the window they are in This is because they feature an extension spur that extends from the handle and is secured over a cockspur wedge striker Fit the New Handle After you've chosen the new handle, align it carefully with the screw holes on the door Then, secure it with the screws supplied Install the latch lever in similar fashion to the handle on the main handle when you're replacing the door handle After that, attach the door trim to hide the screws for mounting Tips To remove the metal head from a wooden wedge place the handle on the floor so that its wide end is on the ground Then, you can use a hammer and tap the narrow end Be careful not to scratch the handle or spindle