Choosing the Right Window Handle For Your UPVC Window
The right window handle is essential to having a properly-fitting uPVC window. You'll need a style which is not only practical but also complements the design of your home.
The process of changing a uPVC window handle is simple. All you need are the following tools and a couple of minutes of your time.
Metal
Metal window handles are an attractive piece of furniture and an essential hardware item to enhance the security of your home. There are a range of metal window handle options that can be adapted to various frames and materials. Certain designs are specifically created for sash windows to help make the process of opening and closing the windows smoother and less likely to get jammed. There are several locks made of metal that stop the window from opening beyond a certain point.
Espag handles are perhaps the most recognised type of window handle used on UPVC windows. They have a mental spindle in the back, which is attached to the frame of the window and is the motor for the window mechanism. Both UPVC and aluminum windows come with them.
Cockspur handles are found on older UPVC window frames. They can be more difficult to use than modern Espag handles because they use the traditional peg locking mechanism.
For a sleeker design, there are also cam handles available. They feature a refined edge and are designed to be compatible with many other types of uPVC windows. They are perfect for tilt and turn windows, where you can open the window from the bottom while being capable of opening the top.
It is crucial to take a number of factors into consideration when selecting new window handles made of steel such as step height and which way the handle turns. The first refers to the distance between the handle's underside nose and the bottom of the screw plate while the latter is which direction the handle will be able to turn. Certain handles can only rotate in one direction, for example clockwise. Other handles can only rotate in the opposite direction.
Plastic
There are many different types of window handles made of plastic. All are designed to operate a window, and then secure it from unwanted intruders. They can be fitted to either uPVC or aluminium windows, and come in a variety of styles and colours. Some are made with a lock built-in. This adds security, allowing you to keep the windows open and secure from burglars.
A variety of situations can lead to window handle issues. Sometimes, they may not be able to rotate properly. This can happen due to dust penetrating the mechanism and causing dirt or a blockage. Another problem that can be observed is when the window handle begins walking tightly or clings to something. This indicates that the window handle is in need of attention.
When this happens, you need to call a specialist. They can help you solve the problem quickly and effectively. They can also provide suggestions on replacing a plastic window handle with a new one that is more efficient and more reliably.
Whatever type of handle you've got most manufacturers will make use of the same fasteners. This means it's easy to replace your window handle and lock with an exact match.
It is important to understand the dimensions and style of your existing window before you look for the replacement handle. This will allow you to find the perfect handle that fits your windows perfectly and doesn't cause any issues. Also, make sure to take note of the spindle length - this refers to how far the handle nose extends out from the base. This can be a vital aspect if you intend to make use of your new window handle with a limiter fitted.
Casement
Like awning windows and casement windows hinge on the top and bottom but they open sideways to the left or right, rather than opening up vertically. They are easy to clean, and they provide a great view into your garden or yard. They also let fresh air in. They're a popular choice for new construction, and they can add an architectural element to older homes as well. However, over time they can become hard to open or close due to wear-out of the hardware or worn gears. In some instances window experts may have to replace the crank mechanism.
Casement or awning windows typically have a roto-gear and crank mechanism that allows the window to be opened and closed but also include an locking mechanism that keeps the sash in place while closed. The lock on an awning window works with the bezel locks to seal the window. Unfortunately, many people overtighten the handle on a casement window. This could cause the locking mechanism to work against each other which causes the window to fail to open or close properly.
Over time, the window crank handle could also wear out. This can happen when the window is opened and closed repeatedly for a long time. It could also occur when the window was used as a prop while it was closed which caused the handle to be pushed against and damaging the crank shaft or gears.
Fortunately, replacing Repair My Windows And Doors or window crank handle with an awning is a simple DIY window repair that can save you money in the long time. The first thing you'll have to find the trim mounting screws that keep the casement cover in place (Photo 3). After removing the screws, you can take off the handle that was previously used and examine the crank mechanism. The gears are sometimes renewed lubricated, but if they're already worn out, it's the time to replace them.
Cockspur
Cockspur handles are typically found on older uPVC windows as well as on aluminum and timber. These handles are easy to operate, lock with the use of a key, and also provide an effective barrier against noise and cold from the outside. The handle opens outwards when you pull the lever. The cockspur nose then closes over the wedge striker within the frame which seals the window. Replacing both the handle and cockspur wedge striker can make your double-glazed windows much more efficient and can improve security.
These replacement cockspur handles are available for left and right-handed windows and are operated by turning them 90°. The handles come with a spur that presses against the PVC wedge of the window frame in order to ensure a secure closing. These handles are easy-to-install and come in various finishes, including satin chrome, white and PVD gold.
Measuring the backset of a cockspur handle could be a challenge, particularly when you're replacing a handle. This handle was designed to solve this issue and comes with 3 packers of different thicknesses that can be positioned on the underside of the handle nose to achieve a range of backset step heights including 9mm 13mm, 17mm, and 21mm.
The Schlosser Technik Apto is a premium quality replacement cockspur handle that is suitable for a variety of applications ranging from 9mm to 21mm with flexible screw fixing centres. It is also easy to install and lock with keys, and comes in a variety of finishes.
This handle is ideal for tilt and turn windows but it will not work with a side-opening casement window (these use a separate tilt and pivot). This handle can be used to replace damaged or old handles on uPVC or aluminium frames using rivets instead of screws. This handle can be affixed to your window frame using a rivet gun.
Espagnolette
Espagnolette window handles, also known as shootbolts or espagnolette locks, are the locking mechanism that connects to the multi-point lock system in your uPVC windows. These are common in older homes and offer both aesthetics and security. Espagnolette handle styles can be both key-locking and non-key-locking and are available in both inline and cranked styles. They can be straight or curved. The key-locking button adds an additional layer of security that prevents the handle from being opened from the outside using the screwdriver's thin head stuck between the frames. This is a common burglary method!
There is a huge variety of espagnolette handles available from at GB DIY Store. It is essential to determine the spindle size of your current espag handle before making a purchase for a replacement. Once you've measured the length of the spindle of your current handle, look through our selection of espag handles and find the right design for your windows.
We carry a huge selection of white uPVC inline espagnolette handles available in key-locking and non-key locking options. They are available in a variety colors and spindle lengths to ensure you can match the new handles to your existing window frame and decor. Our espagnolette handles range includes modern and classic designs as well as contemporary designs. Each replacement handle is supplied with 5 interchangeable magnetic spindle sizes ranging from 15mm and 55mm, so you can easily fix the handle to your windows without having to purchase an exact screw size!
A clever rose on the back of the rose makes sure that the spindle fits in the correct spot and is only inserted by using the left or right hand lever, preventing any incidents. A metal spindle is also used to secure the espagnolette handle. The handle is secured by an ingenious mechanism called the "click-fit" which is activated by rotating the handle by hand and it emits an audible "click".