Window Handles 101: Your Ultimate Guide For Beginners
Window Handles Window handles come in a variety of styles and colors to match your home. They open and shut double-glazed windows using a hidden locking mechanism. It is crucial to measure the spindle prior to replacing your handle. This is the distance the nose sticks out from the base plate or how far it goes into lock. Espag Handles Espag handles are used to operate multi-point locks in double glazed windows. The handle can be turned around the window to increase security. Our collection of espagnolette handles for windows include both straight and cranked styles in a range of finishes like chrome, brass black, forged and black. Each handle is constructed of sturdy die cast zinc that is powder coated or plated for high corrosion resistance as well as protection against wear. They are specifically designed to be used with uPVC or aluminum windows with espagnolette or shot bolt mechanisms. They can be locked into the closed position with a key or a push button. The majority of espagnolette handles come with a 7mm squared spindle that runs through the lever backplate and fits into a lock mechanism inside the frame of the sash. Turning the handle will activate the lock. When choosing a new espagnolette handle it is important to take the spindle length into consideration since this will determine how your window will be opened. The spindle size will be identified by a number on the backplate of the handle, such as '5”, '¾” or '2/3” You will have to compare this with your current handle to make sure it is suitable. Cranked handles are a different design to straight handles. They are available in either left-handed versions (opened clockwise) and right-handed versions (opened anticlockwise) according to the way you open your window. The cranked design provides more room to open the window. This is ideal for windows close to the frame. The cockspur handle is a different variant on the espagnolette design, but this one with a cockspur nose that is closed onto a striker plate in a similar way as an espagnolette multi-point lock. This kind of handle is ideal for older UPVC as well as aluminium windows. It can be used as repair handles to replace old broken handles. Crankspur and cranked handle models can be supplied with a key lock insert to give additional security. They are available in a variety of hand options and include an black blanking plug for those who prefer their window handle unlocked or want to highlight it as a fire escape only. Cockspur Handles The cockspur is a traditional window handle that has an elongated spur, or a triangle bit, that pushes against the wedge on the frame as the handle is closed. They are typically found on older aluminum or uPVC windows that lack an internal mechanism to secure the frame. The cockspur handles keep them in place. These handles come in a range of nose and nib heights to match various profiles. They are also suitable for both right and left hand window systems. They're the ideal solution for people looking to replace a faulty or worn window handle that does not require more intricate internal gadgetry. Our Sparta Cockspur window handle is constructed of top-quality materials and is a popular choice for a variety of uses. It has a sleek, modern design and comes with an ordinary deadlock cylinder to enhance security. It is available in various backset heights that are compatible with all typical casements. It can be used with a complete suite of window accessories that match. In-line cockspur handle models are straight and turn either left or right, while cranked cockspur handle models have an 'ear that is attached to a plastic striker plate fixed to the frame. It's easy to use and can be locked or unlocked with a key for added security. Espagnolette handles are typically considered to be more secure than cockspur handles as they use a spindle to manage multiple locks concealed within the frame. These handles are a great solution for those who require a safe handle for double-glazing. They come in a variety of styles to fit your home's style. It is important to measure your windows prior buying new frames. This will ensure that the handle and spindle are the correct size for the new frames. It is also important you select a product that is in line with the minimum requirements of Secured By Design. Handles that tilt and turn Tilt and turn windows are becoming more popular due to their design efficiency, effectiveness and the benefits they provide. They have a variety of opening options and can be opened in different ways to allow fresh air into the house, or serve as a an escape route for fire. They function similarly to an espagnolette handle but are equipped with additional functions that make them ideal for tilt and turn windows. The lever can be set down when locked to close the windows and 90 degrees to tilt it open as an opening window, or upwards to open the window. They feature a multipoint locking mechanism that is more effective against forced entry than double-glazed casement windows. The bottom hinge on the outside has metal locking pins which are inserted to a rail of metal along the inner frame when the handle is in the closed position. Two additional hinges at the bottom corners can be opened inwards to hold the inner window in place. This feature is ideal for windows with larger windows and permits better air circulation. The open mode can be activated by turning the handle in such a way that it is facing upwards. It opens the window with the vertical direction which provides better airflow and makes cleaning easier. The sash is able to be pushed to the side that is facing the windows to create a gap enough to accommodate the ladder or stool through. Tilt-and-turn handles are typically larger than cockspur and espag handles because they have to be able handle the larger and larger frame sizes. They are spindle-based and utilize the exact same fixings that a standard handle made of espag or cockspur employs, but they have a wider base and often larger screw centers. window handles which are more affordable than aluminium or timber and do not require painting, are the most popular for these windows. However there are numerous wood-effect finishes to choose from. Aluminium is also an option for these kinds of windows, since it's lighter and can be painted to match the existing style. Handles for spades or blades If you are planning to upgrade your uPVC windows, or replacing the ones that were included with the property, it is crucial to choose handles that match the style and functionality of the window. After all, the closing and locking mechanisms are equally crucial as the frame, allowing you to use your uPVC windows efficiently and without fuss. You should also make sure that the handles last and not break easily. The blade handle, also known as the spade, is one of the most commonly used types of handles. They are usually used on tilt and turn or casement style uPVC windows. They operate by using a lever that operates a latch and catch or multi-point lock mechanism. The catch is typically attached to a peg stay or mortice keep, which sits within the frame of your window, and offers an additional level of security and stability. These handles are typically used on double glazed uPVC casement windows or tilt-and-turn windows. They are designed to be more comfortable and offer a greater amount of leverage to open the window, making them easier to use. They are also available in a range of designs to suit most interior styles and preferences. The handle will include a spindle (7mm) that extends from the back. The spindle is used to engage and enter the gearbox within the window of the multi-point lock system. This lets the window be closed and locked with more security. The handles are also available in a range of sizes that can be fitted to different sizes of frames. Some manufacturers offer angled and straight versions too. You can also up the security of your uPVC windows by selecting handles that come with a key-locking mechanism. These are ideal for uPVC windows and doors that are frequently used as they allow you to secure your door or window from the outside, making it more difficult for burglars to gain entry by pushing open or manipulating the handle. While there are arguments in favor of and against using the lock handle, we think that it makes sense as it will add an additional level of security for your home. Even if you don't think that intruders will try to gain entry into your home, the fact that they may have a harder than they would with the key-locking handles is likely to make them less likely to be interested.