Ensuring the security of your house is absolutely crucial, especially today when the rate of burglaries is sky-high worldwide. Burglary is very common in the UK, so much that around 34 burglaries happen every hour. In a scenario like this, leaving your home in the hands of faulty locks and loose door and window handles is super risky.
If your home has loose handles and faulty locks on uPVC windows, you need to replace them as soon as possible. Let’s explore some effective methods for uPVC window lock replacement to ensure the security of your home.
How Do You Know that the uPVC Windows Locks and Handles Need Replacement?
Determining whether the locks and handles of uPVC windows require replacement is not a complex task. If you use your uPVC windows regularly, there are clear signs that will indicate whether replacement is necessary or not.
- The primary indicator of a faulty handle is the lack of movement or a loose grip when turning it. This issue often arises due to normal wear and tear over time. Moreover, excessive wobbling of the handle may necessitate the replacement of the uPVC window handle broken.
- When it comes to window locks, there are several reasons that may require their replacement. For instance, the key may not turn fully in the lock, the key might turn inside the lock but fail to open it, or the key may get stuck in the lock and become difficult to remove. In any of these situations, it could be necessary to replace the window lock.
What are the Types of uPVC Door Handles and Locks?
Now that you are aware of whether your uPVC handles or locks are faulty, it’s important to replace them if needed. However, before proceeding with the replacement of new uPVC window handles, you must first determine the type of handles and locks currently installed in your uPVC windows. Generally, there are three main types of handles used for uPVC windows.
- Espag Handles: Espag handles are most commonly used on uPVC double-glazed windows. The best thing about them is the multi-point locking mechanism that ensures enhanced security. On top of that, the locking mechanism is internal and controlled by a spindle.
- Cockspur handles: These types of handles are usually found on older window designs. It does not have any internal locking mechanism. However, it is considered safe as the nose of the handle is pushed across a wedge block on the window’s interior.
- Tilt and turn handles: The third most commonly used handle is tilt and turn. These types of handles are used in high-rise buildings as they make the windows easy to clean.
Types of Locks
With respect to the handles on uPVC double-glazed windows, multi-point locks are the most common. These locks have a shoot bolt rod and a lock gearbox that provides supreme security. This mechanism is found in Espag locks that help the window serve its benefits.
How to buy the Handles and Locks For uPVC Windows?
With the various types of handles and locks available for uPVC windows, it becomes essential to check the ones currently installed before buying the new uPVC window handles. So, here are some chief factors to keep in mind before the replacement uPVC window handles.
Spindle Length
Before purchasing Espag handles and tilt and turn handles, it’s crucial to consider the spindle length. Both handle types feature a spindle, which can be measured as the portion of the handle that goes into the wooden frame or the amount that protrudes from the back of the handle base. When dealing with uPVC windows, it’s important to note that they typically have a smaller cross-section of around 7 mm. Therefore, ensure you measure the spindle length and cross-section of the windows accurately to make the right choice.
Step Height
When dealing with cockspur handles on your uPVC window, the step height becomes a critical parameter to consider. The step height in a cockspur handle refers to the length from the handle’s nose to the frame where the lock is installed. To ensure accuracy, it is crucial to measure the step height when the window is properly closed. Typically, the common step height for uPVC windows is around 21 mm.
Handling
Improper installation of a handle can lead to inconvenience, especially if not installed in the correct orientation. uPVC handles can be categorised into two types based on their turning mechanism. Handles that unlock by turning in the anti-clockwise direction will be opened using the right hand, while handles that unlock by turning in the clockwise direction will be opened using the left hand. It is essential to ensure correct orientation during installation to avoid any inconvenience in the handling of the uPVC handle.
Fixing Position
The installation position of all handles is determined by their screw-fixing holes. To ensure proper installation, it is essential to carefully check these holes. For Espag handles, the fixing frame length is 43 mm, featuring two holes. Tilt and turn handles also have two fixings on the 43 mm frame. As for cockspur handles, the size of the outer side can vary between 58-62 mm. Taking note of these specifications will help ensure the handles are correctly installed.
The uPVC Window Locking Mechanism Replacement!
So far, we have touched on everything related to uPVC handles and locks. Now, let’s see how we can effectively deal with uPVC window locks repair, replacement uPVC window keys, and more.
Note: It is best to choose a professional for window hinge replacement, glass replacement, lock replacement, or handle replacement.
There are numerous scenarios to consider before you replace the handles and locks.
Espag Handle
If either the handle or the lock is faulty, both components will need to be replaced for the Espag lock. To facilitate a smooth replacement process, it is essential to find the exact same lock and handle mechanism as the ones being replaced.
To replace the handle, simply unscrew the existing screws and install the new handle in its place. This straightforward process will help restore the functionality and security of your uPVC window.
Cockspur Handle
Additionally, replacing the cockspur handle is a relatively simple task, as it does not have an internal lock mechanism. To replace the handle, first, unscrew the handle from the uPVC window. Make sure the window remains closed and properly aligned with the wedge block during the process. Next, securely fasten the new handle in the same position and test its functionality to ensure everything is in proper working order.
Tilt and Turn Handle
The tilt and turn handle also has an internal lock mechanism. Therefore, before replacing the handle, it’s important to check its functionality before replacing the handle. To change the handle, start by unscrewing the old one. Then, position the new handle in the locked position and secure it with screws. Test the handle’s operation and add the screw covers for a tidy finish. Finally, place the handle in the lock position, insert the key, and ensure it stays locked in place.
Conclusion
The handles, locks, and uPVC window hinge replacement process is not a big deal as long as you have the original parts. While you can attempt the replacement yourself with the help of a guide, it is recommended to opt for professional services when considering replacement uPVC window handles.
To get the best professionals at this job, get in touch with C.U.in!
