Replacing a window handle: step by step instructions

A window or door handle is used to control the fittings of metal—plastic structures. The handle is connected to the hardware mechanism, and by turning it, we can open the window in various modes, as well as close the sash by pressing it against the frame and fixing it in the closed position.

Thus, the handle becomes the element of the window that is operated most intensively and experiences the strongest loads. As a result of prolonged operation or with significant effort, the handle may fail. In addition, it breaks down during prolonged work on a window whose fittings have not been cleaned and lubricated. In any of the situations described, the handle needs to be replaced — and most often it can be done with your own hands in a few minutes.

When the window handle needs to be replaced

It is not always necessary to change the handle — there are situations in which you can do with less expenses. Problems in the operation of the window handle can arise for various reasons, so it is worth analyzing the situation first and only then buying a new handle for replacement.

So, before changing the handle, we carefully study the window and evaluate the work of the fittings:

• The handle is jammed — it does not turn even with considerable effort. The first solution to the problem is to try to disable the erroneous opening lock by pressing it with a finger or a screwdriver. In 90% of cases, the lock is removed, and then the window works without problems. But sometimes the handle gets stuck due to a breakdown of the mechanism itself - in this case, it is worth contacting a metal—plastic window repairman.
• The handle turns, but with a lot of effort or extraneous sound. It's almost always a matter of a hardware mechanism that works with increased friction. The reasons are the misalignment of the hinged sash, excessively strong clamping, lack of lubrication or contamination of the rubbing parts. In any case, it is necessary to adjust the fittings, clean and lubricate them. In our blog there are articles describing in detail the adjustment process and the process of caring for the fittings of a plastic window.
• The handle turns, but the hardware does not work or is unstable. Most likely, the problem is in the pin — the edges have worn off and do not provide engagement with the mechanism. The handle will have to be changed.

Pay attention! If you have dismantled the handle, but the pin looks whole (i.e. square in cross—section without signs of wear of the edges) - do not rush to change the handle. Perhaps it's the hardware mechanism itself — so it's worth calling the master.

• The handle wobbles at the attachment point. Here you need to inspect the base of the handle and the mounting screws. If the base is whole, tighten the screws until it stops and the handle holds firmly again. If there is a crack in the base — a replacement handle!
• The handle broke. The lever can break off either due to a defect in production (it happens, but rarely), or when trying to turn the handle with great effort - see the point about working under heavy load due to lack of care. Any such breakdown is a reason to replace the handle.

How to change the window handle

A window handle is a detail that changes simply and does not require special skills to install. So everyone can deal with the replacement technology without exaggeration.

First you need to buy a new pen to replace. Window handles for PVC structures are universal, the only difference may relate to the length of the pin and the length of the mounting screws included in the kit. On the other hand, when replacing, you can choose:

• Reinforced handle with extended lever
• Designer pen
• A handle with an anti-burglar mechanism, a lock or a button

More information about choosing a handle for a metal-plastic window is described in a separate article of our blog.

The very technique of replacing the handle on a metal-plastic window is very simple:

• First we need to get to the place where the handle is attached. To do this, it is enough to lift the decorative overlay with a knife or a flat screwdriver and turn it 90°.
• Fixing screws fix the base of the handle on the sash. Unscrew them with a phillips screwdriver and remove them from the hole.
• Pull out the handle — the pin should come out of the socket without resistance.
• We install the new handle in place of the old one — so that the mounting holes on the base and on the profile coincide.
• We fix the handle with fixing screws, tightening them until they stop (so as not to damage the plastic parts of the base).
• We turn the decorative overlay on the base, closing the attachment caps.

If everything was done correctly, the new handle will hold firmly on the base, and at the same time will allow you to easily open and close the window in different modes. You can check this immediately after replacing the handle — but it is still worth cleaning and lubricating the mechanism at the same time.

Replacing the window handle is a task that is solved quickly enough and with a minimum of costs. But sometimes the incorrect operation of the handle indicates more complex problems — and their solution should be entrusted to specialists with higher qualifications.

You can order a high-quality professional installation of metal-plastic windows by following the link