The Window Handle Replacement Awards: The Most Stunning, Funniest, And Weirdest Things We've Seen

Choosing the Right Window Handle For Your UPVC Window

The right window handle is crucial for a well-fitting uPVC window. You'll need a style which is not only practical but also complements the design of your home.

Changing a uPVC window handle is very simple. All you require are the tools listed below and only a few minutes of your time.

Metal

The window handle made of metal can be a nice touch as well as an essential piece of hardware to increase security in your home. A variety of metal window handles are available, suited to different frames and materials.  door handle repairs chingford Repair My Windows And Doors  of these handles are designed specifically for sash windows, to make the process of opening and closing the windows smoother and less likely to jam. For those looking for a more secure option, there are also several locking mechanisms designed to block the window from opening beyond a certain amount.

The most common type of window handle that is used on UPVC is the epag handle. They have a spindle mental on the back which is fixed to the window frame which drives the window mechanism. Both UPVC and aluminum windows come with them.

Cockspur handles are found on older UPVC window frames. These handles are more difficult than modern Espag handles because they employ a traditional peg-locking mechanism.

Cam handles are available for more sleek appearance. These have a refined edge and are designed to be compatible with other types of uPVC windows. They are perfect for tilt and turn windows in which you can open the window at the bottom, while still being capable of opening the top.

It is crucial to take a variety of factors into consideration when choosing new window handles made of steel including the step height as well as which way the handle turns. The distance between the underside and the bottom of the screw plate is the first factor to consider. The second aspect to consider is the direction in which the handle will be turned. Certain handles can only rotate in one direction, such as clockwise. Others can only rotate in the opposite direction.

Plastic

There are a variety of kinds of window handles made of plastic. They are all designed to operate windows and protect them from invaders. They are available in a variety of styles and colors to fit uPVC and aluminium windows. Some of them also have a lock built in. This increases security and lets you leave the window open while being secure from burglars.

Different situations can trigger window handle problems. Sometimes, they might not be able to be turned correctly. This could be due to dust penetrating the mechanism, causing dirt or a blockage. The most frequent issue is when the handle of the window starts to stick or walk in a tight manner. This is an indicator that the window handle is in need of attention.

It is crucial to speak with an expert in the event of this. They can help you solve the issue swiftly and efficiently. They can also offer suggestions on replacing a plastic window handle with new ones that will function better and more consistently.

Regardless of the type of handle you've got most manufacturers will use the same fasteners. It is therefore simple to change the window handle and lock by using an exact match.

When you're trying to find the perfect replacement handle, it's important to know your current window size and style. This will enable you to choose the perfect handle that fits your windows perfectly and doesn't cause any issues. Also, make sure to keep track of the spindle's length - this refers to how far the handle's extends from the base. This is an important factor if you want to make use of your new window handle with a restrictor fitted.

Casement

Like awning windows and casement windows hinge on the top and bottom but they open to the left or right, rather than opening vertically. They are also less difficult to clean, and they give you a fantastic view of your backyard or garden. They also let fresh air in. They're a popular choice for new construction and they can add an architectural feature to older homes, too. As time passes, they may become difficult to open or close due to worn-out hardware or stripped gears. In certain cases, a window professional may have to replace the entire crank mechanism.

Casement windows or awning windows typically feature a roto-gear and crank system that allows the window to be closed and opened, but they also feature the ability to lock to keep the sash in place when closed. The lock on a window with an awning function is linked to the bezel locks to secure the window. Unfortunately, many people overtighten the operating handle of the casement window. This can cause the locking mechanism to work against each other and cause the window to not open or close properly.

It's also common for the window crank handle to get worn out over time. This could happen when the window is opened and closed repeatedly over a prolonged period of time. It could also happen when the window is used as a prop when it's open, which causes its operating handle to rub on the crank shaft and gears.

Fortunately, replacing a casement or window crank handle for awning is a straightforward DIY window repair that will save you money in the long time. First, you'll need to find the trim mounting screw that secures the casement cover (Photo 3). Once you've unscrewed the screws then you'll be able to remove the old handle and examine the inside of the crank mechanism. The gears can sometimes be reflubricated, but if already stripped, it's time to replace them.

Cockspur

Cockspur window handles can be found on older uPVC timber, aluminium and timber windows. They are key locking, simple to operate and offer an effective barrier against noise and cold from outside. The handle opens up by pulling down on the lever and the cockspur nose closes over a wedge striker within the frame to seal the window when closing. By replacing both the handle and the wedge that cockspur is, you can improve your double-glazed windows' efficiency and security.

These replacement cockspur handles are available for left and right-handed windows and are operated by turning them 90°. The handles are fitted with a spur that pushes up against the PVC wedge of the window frame to secure the closing. These handles are easy-to-install and come in various finishes such as satin chrome, white and PVD gold.

Measuring the backset of a cockspur's handle can be a challenge, particularly when you're replacing an existing handle. This handle was designed to solve this issue and features three packers of various thicknesses that can be placed on the underside of the handle's nose to provide a variety of backset step heights including 9mm 13mm, 17mm, and 21mm.

The Schlosser Technik apto is a high-quality replacement cockspur that has flexible screw fixing centers. It can be used for a variety of applications between 9mm and 21mm. It also features key locking simple and easy to fit, available in a range of finishes. It is available with left and right hand variations.

This cockspur handle is designed to fit tilt and turn windows, but not side-opening casement windows (which use a separate pivot and tilt). This handle can be used to replace damaged or worn out handles on uPVC and aluminium frames using rivets instead of screws. You will require a rivet gun and rivets to attach this handle to your existing window frame.

Espagnolette

Espagnolette window handles, also known as espagnolette locks or shootbolts are the locking mechanism that connects to the multi-point lock system in your uPVC windows. They are commonly found in older homes and provide both aesthetics as well as security. Espagnolette handles are available with key-locking or non-key-locking mechanisms and in both crank and inline styles. They can also come in a straight or curved style. The key-locking button provides an extra layer of security by preventing the handle from being opened from the outside with an insignificant screwdriver that is stuck between the frames. This is a common burglary method!

There's a wide selection of espagnolette handles to choose from at GB DIY Store. Each has a distinct spindle length that extends from the back of the handle, therefore when looking to replace your espag handles it is important to determine the current handle's spindle length to ensure you receive the right size replacement handle. Once you have done this, you can browse through our selection of replacement espag handles to find the ideal design for your windows.

We stock a fantastic selection of white uPVC inline espagnolette handles available in both key-locking and not-key-locking versions. You can choose from a range of colors and spindle sizes to match your new handles with the frame of your window or decor. Our collection of espagnolette handles includes contemporary and contemporary styles, as also classic designs. Each replacement handle comes with 5 different magnetic spindle lengths between 15mm and55mm, making it easy to fit the handle to your window without the need to purchase an exact size screw!

A clever rosette in the back of the rose ensures that the spindle will only be used with the left-hand lever or right-hand lever. This prevents any accidents. A spindle made of metal is used to secure the handle of an espagnolette. The handle is held in place by an ingenious 'click-fit mechanism' which is activated by rotating the handle by hand and revealing an audible "click".