What Is Window Handles And Why Is Everyone Dissing It?
Window Handles
Window handles are available in a variety of styles and colors to match your home. They open and close double-glazed windows with a hidden locking system.
When replacing your handle it is important to check the length of the spindle. This is the length at which the nose sticks out from the base plate or how far it is inserted into the lock.
Espag Handles
Espag handles are used to operate multi-point locks on double glazed windows. The handle can be rotated around the window to increase security. Our selection of espagnolette window handles includes straight and cranked styles with a variety of finishes, including chrome, brass, black and forged.
Each handle is constructed of durable die cast zinc and powder coated or plated to provide high corrosion resistance and impact resistance, as well as protection against wear. They are made to be used on uPVC or aluminium windows that have an espagnolette or shot bolt mechanism. They can be locked into the closed position by using a key or a push button.
The espagnolette handle is usually a 7mm squared rod which runs through the backplate of the lever and into the lock mechanism within the sash frame. Turning the handle activates the lock mechanism. When choosing an espagnolette handle that you want to replace, it is important to take the spindle length into consideration as it will determine how the window will be opened. The spindle size will be marked with a number on the handle backplate such as '5", '3/4" or '2/3" and you'll need to measure this against your current handle to make sure it will fit.
Cranked handles are a more elegant design to straight handles. They can be ordered in left-handed versions (opened clockwise) and right-handed versions (opened anticlockwise) according to the method you use to open your window. The cranked style is designed to provide you with more hand clearance when opening the window, making it ideal for windows that are close to the frame edge.
The cockspur handle is a different variant of the espagnolette style, this time with a cockspur-shaped nose that is closed onto a striker plate in a similar manner to a multi-point espagnolette lock. This kind of handle is suitable for older UPVC as well as aluminium windows. It can be used as a repair handle to replace old broken cockspur handles.
The key-lock insert can be used for both cockspur as well as cranked handle models. They are available with a choice of hands and come with a blanking plug in black, if you prefer your window handle to be unlocked, or if you want to highlight it only as a fire egress.
Cockspur Handles
The handle cockspur is a traditional window handle which has an elongated spur (triangle bit) that presses against the wedge found on the frame when the handle is closed. These are often found on older windows made of aluminium or on uPVC casement windows which don't have an internal mechanism for securing the frame. Therefore, they depend on the cockspur handle to keep them in place.
These handles come in a range of nose and nib heights to fit a variety of profiles. They are also suitable for both right and left hand window systems. They're the perfect solution for those looking to replace a faulty or damaged window handle that does not require more complex internal gadgetry.
Our Sparta window handle is constructed of top-quality materials and is a well-loved choice for a wide range of applications. It has a sleek ergonomic design and comes with a standard lockable deadlock cylinder for increased security. It is available in a variety of backset heights to accommodate all common casement sizes and is compatible with a range of window accessories that match.
In-line cockspurs are straight and can be turned left or right. Cranked cockspurs come with a small "nose" that sits over an aluminum plate that is attached to the frame. It is simple to use and is lockable or unlocked by using keys.
Espagnolette handles are regarded to be more secure than cockspur models since they have a spinning spindle that operates multiple locks hidden in the frame. They are the best choice for those who need an extra secure window handle for their double glazing, and you can choose from a variety of different styles to suit your home.
It is essential to measure your windows prior purchasing a new set. This will ensure that the handle and spindle are the right dimensions for your new frames. Select a product that meets the Secured By Design minimum requirements.
Tilt and Turn Handles
The benefits and functionality of tilt and turn windows is increasing. They offer multiple opening options and can be opened in different ways to let fresh air in the home, or provide a fire escape.
They function similarly to an espagnolette handle but come with additional functions, making them better suited to tilt and turn-style windows. The lever can be placed downwards when locked to close the windows and 90 degrees to tilt it open like windows, or up to open the window.
They have a multipoint locking mechanism that is more efficient against forced entry than double-glazed casement windows. The outer bottom hinge has metal locking pins that are engaged to a rail of metal within the frame when the handle is in its closed position. The inner window is also secured by two hinges located in the corners of the bottom that can be opened to the side and outwards, which makes them ideal for larger windows and great for air circulation.
The open mode is activated when the handle is turned facing upwards. This opens the window with vertical tilt, which allows for healthy airflow and makes cleaning more convenient than ever. This is due to the fact that the sash can be pulled upwards from either side of the window to create a gap large enough for the ladder or stool to fit through.
Tilt-and-turn handles are typically larger than cockspur and espag handles because they must be able handle the larger and heavier frame sizes. They are usually spindle based and use the same type of fixings that are used in a standard espag or cockspur handle but they have larger bases and often larger screw centres.
uPVC frames, which are cheaper than timber or aluminium and don't require painting, are the most popular for these windows. However there are numerous wood-effect finishes to choose from. Aluminium is another option for these types of windows as it's lighter and can be painted to match the existing style.
Spade or Blade Handles
If you are planning to upgrade your uPVC windows, or replacing those that were included with the property, it is crucial to choose handles that suit both the design and function of the window. The closing and locking mechanisms of your uPVC window are equally important as their frame. This lets you utilize them effectively and with no hassle. It is also important to make sure that the handles are of top quality and will last well, rather than breaking easily or becoming susceptible to damage.
One of the most sought-after kinds of handle is a spade or blade handle. These are typically used on tilt and turn or casement-style uPVC windows. They operate by using the lever which operates a latch and catch or multi-point lock mechanism. The catch is usually attached to a peg stay or mortice keep, which is positioned in the frame of your window which provides more security and stability.
These handles are commonly employed on double-glazed uPVC casement windows, or tilt-and turn windows. They are designed for better ergonomics and offer more leverage to open windows, making them more convenient. They are available in a variety of styles to suit any style of interior.
The handle itself will have a spindle (7mm square) that protrudes from the back which is used to connect with and penetrate the gearbox of the multi-point locking system inside the window. This allows the window to be locked and closed with greater security. The handles are also available in a variety of sizes to fit various sizes of frames. Some manufacturers offer angled and straight versions as well.
It is also possible to increase the security of uPVC windows by using handles that feature a key-locking system. door handle repairs are ideal for uPVC doors and windows that are frequently used as they allow you to lock your door or window from the outside, making it more difficult for burglars to get in by pushing open or manipulating the handle.
While there are arguments for and against using locks We believe that it is logical since it will provide an extra degree of security to your home. Even if you are not worried about intruders trying to gain entry into your home and enter your home, the fact that they will encounter more difficulty getting past the key-locking handle is likely to dissuade them and make it less of a target for them.