uPVC Window Handle Replacement in Liverpool

Is it the handle or the lock behind it?

On most uPVC casement windows the handle turns a square spindle that drives an espagnolette (shootbolt) locking strip running around the edge of the sash. Locking cams or bolts on that strip engage keeps on the frame. So when a handle misbehaves, there are two possible sources: the handle itself, or the gear it is driving.

• Handle spins freelyOften the spindle has sheared or slipped out, or the gearbox in the espagnolette has failed. A new handle fixes the first; the second needs the locking gear replaced.
• Handle snapped or crackedUsually a straight swap, as long as the replacement matches the spindle length and screw centres.
• Handle stiff to turnRarely the handle at fault. Most often the sash has dropped or the keeps are out of line, so the cams are dragging.
• Key lost or lock seizedA new locking handle with fresh keys, or a non-locking handle where you no longer want a key, if it is not an escape window you rely on.
• Handle loose on the sashScrews worked loose or stripped in the uPVC. Sometimes fixable by re-fixing; sometimes a handle with a different base is needed.
• Old style or wrong colourSwapping tired or discoloured handles for a matching set across the house.

If the handle turns but the window does not lock or will not open, our uPVC window lock repair page goes into gearboxes and espagnolettes in more detail.

How we match a replacement handle

uPVC window handles are not universal. The details that matter are:

• Spindle length – how far the square spindle needs to reach into the gear. Common lengths vary, and too short a spindle will slip.
• Fixing centres – the distance between the two screws, so the new handle uses the existing holes.
• Handing and type – cranked or straight, left or right, locking or non-locking, and whether it is an inline or offset handle for tilt-and-turn or casement gear.
• Finish – white, chrome, gold, black and others, so it matches the rest of the house.

A photo of the handle in the closed position, with something for scale, and a note of how many windows you want doing helps us bring the right parts. Many common handles can be fitted at the first visit if we carry them, but odd sizes may need ordering.

Locking handles, child safety and escape windows

A key-locking handle stops a window being opened from inside without the key. That is useful on ground-floor windows and for keeping small children from opening upper windows. But a window that is relied on as a means of escape in a fire needs to open quickly, so a locked handle with the key out of reach can be a real problem. On those windows, keep the key in or near the window, or consider a releasable window restrictor instead, which limits the opening but can be released by an adult in an emergency.

Tilt-and-turn windows have a different handle and a more complex gear with a mis-operation device. Turning the handle while the sash is open can jam it. We deal with those on our tilt and turn window repair page.

What happens when you book

1. We ask how many handles, what they are doing, and for a photo if possible.
2. We visit, check the handle, spindle and the locking gear, and how the sash sits.
3. We quote in writing and explain whether a new handle is enough or the gear or alignment needs attention too.
4. We fit the handles, adjust keeps if needed, and test that each window opens, closes and locks smoothly.

Handle replacement across Liverpool

We fit window handles across Liverpool and Merseyside. Much of the inter-war and post-war housing in places like Norris Green, West Derby and Kirkby had uPVC windows fitted from the 1980s onwards, so many original handles and gears are now worn. Handle replacement sits alongside the rest of our uPVC window and double glazing repairs.

Cost factors

The price depends on how many handles you need, whether they are locking or non-locking, the finish, and whether the gear behind them also needs work. Replacing all the handles in a house at once usually works out better than one visit per window. We quote after seeing the windows.