Choosing the Right Window Handle For Your UPVC Window
Choosing the right window handle is vital to a well-fitting uPVC window. You'll need a style which is not only functional but also complements the aesthetics of your home.
Changing a uPVC window handle is very simple. All you require are the tools listed below and only a few minutes of your time.
Metal
Metal window handles can be an attractive piece of furniture as well as an essential piece of hardware to enhance the security of your home. There are many metal window handle options that can be customized to various frames and materials. Certain designs are designed specifically for sash windows to help make the process of opening and closing the window easier and less likely to block. If you are seeking a more secure alternative, there are several locking mechanisms designed to block the window from opening beyond a certain level.
The most common kind of window handle for UPVC is the epag handle. They have a mental spindle at the back which is fixed to the frame of the window and is the motor for the window mechanism. Both UPVC and aluminum windows have them.
Cockspur handles are another common type of window handle typically found on older UPVC windows. These handles are more difficult than modern Espag handles because they employ a traditional peg-locking mechanism.
For a more sleek design There are cam handles available. They feature a refined edge and are designed to be compatible with many other types of uPVC windows. They are suitable for tilt and turn windows, where it is possible to open the window from the bottom, while allowing the top of the window to be opened.
It is important to take a variety of factors into consideration when selecting new metal window handles such as step height and which way the handle turns. The distance between the underside and the bottom of the screw plate is the first aspect to take into account. The second aspect to consider is the direction in which the handle can be turned. Certain handles can only rotate in only one direction, like clockwise. Others can only rotate in the opposite direction.
Plastic
There are a variety of window handles made from plastic. All are designed to operate windows and secure them from unwanted intruders. They can be used on either uPVC or aluminium windows, and come in a variety of styles and colours. Some are made with a built-in lock. This provides added security, allowing you to keep the window open and safe from intruders.
A variety of situations can lead to window handle issues. Sometimes, they might not be able to rotate correctly. This could be due to dust getting into the mechanism, blocking it or causing dirt. Another common problem occurs when the window handle starts walking tightly or clings to something. This indicates that the window handle is in need of attention.
When this happens, you need to contact a professional. They can help you resolve the issue quickly and efficiently. They can also provide suggestions on how to replace a plastic handle with one that is more reliable and will work better.
The majority of manufacturers use the exact same fasteners, regardless of the kind of handle you have. It is therefore simple to replace the window handle and lock using the exact model.
When you're trying to find the right replacement handle, you need to be aware of your window's size and design. This will ensure that you get a new handle that is perfect and won't cause any issues with your current windows. Also, make sure to take note of the spindle's length which is how far the handle's nose extends out from the base. This can be a vital aspect if you intend to use your new window handle with a restrictor fitted.
Casement
Casement windows are hinged on top and bottom like awning windows. They are open in a horizontal direction to the left or the right, rather than vertically. They are also easier to maintain and provide a great view into your yard or garden. They also let fresh air in. They're a popular choice for new construction and they can also add an architectural feature to older homes as well. As time passes, they may become difficult to open or close due to worn-out equipment or worn out gears. In certain cases window specialists may need to replace the crank mechanism.
Casement windows, also known as awning windows, typically come with a roto-gear or crank mechanism that allows the window to be opened and closed however, they also have an locking mechanism that keeps the sash in place when closed. The lock on an awning window works with the bezel locks to seal the window. Many people overtighten their casement window's operating handle. This could cause the locking mechanisms to operate against each with windows to become tangled and not close or open properly.
It's also common for the window crank handle to wear out over time. This is usually the case when the window has been closed and opened several times over an extended period of time. This could also happen when the window is used as a prop while it's open, causing its operating handle to rub on the crank shaft and gears.
Replacing a casement window or an awning window crank is a straightforward DIY window repair. It could save you money over time. The first thing you'll need find the screws used to mount the trim that hold the casement cover in place (Photo 3). After you have removed the screws, you can take off the handle that was previously used and examine the crank mechanism. The gears are sometimes relubricated, but if they're already stripped, it's time for a replacement.
Cockspur
Cockspur handles are typically found on older uPVC windows as well as on aluminum and timber. They lock with a key, are easy to operate and provide an effective shield against noise and cold from the outside. The handle opens by pressing down on the lever and the cockspur nose closes over a wedge striker in the frame to seal the window on closing. Replacing both the handle and cockspur wedge striker can make your double-glazed windows more efficient, and also increase security.
These handles are available for left and right-handed windows. They can be operated by turning them 90degrees. door handle repair are equipped with a small spur that pushes up against the PVC wedge of the window frame to ensure a secure closing. They are simple to install and are available in a variety of designs such as white, satin chrome, and PVD gold.
How to measure the backset of a cockspur handle can be tricky, especially when you're replacing a handle. This handle was designed to solve this problem and has three packers of various thicknesses that can be positioned on the side of the handle's nose to provide a variety of backset heights such as 9mm, 13mm, 17mm and 21mm.
The Schlosser Technik Apto is a premium quality replacement cockspur handle which can be used in a variety of applications from 9mm to 21mm with flexible screw fixing centres. It is also easy to install, key locking and available in a variety of finishes.
This handle is suitable for tilt and turn windows but will not suit the side opening casement windows (these have the tilt and pivot separately). It can be used to replace older or damaged handles on uPVC or aluminium frames with rivets instead of screws, the only difference is the method of attachment. This handle can be affixed to your window frame by using an edging gun.
Espagnolette
The mechanism for locking your uPVC window is the espagnolette lock or shootbolt. These are common in older homes and offer both aesthetics and security. Espagnolette handles are available with key-locking or non-key lock mechanisms and come in both crank and inline designs. They can also be a straight or curved design. The key-locking push button adds extra security since it prevents the handle from being pulled open from the outside via an extremely long screw driver snagged between the frames. This is a common method of burglary!
There is a huge variety of espagnolette handles available from here at GB DIY Store. Each one has a different spindle length that protrudes from the back of the handle, so when you are looking to replace your handles with espag, it is essential to measure the current handle's spindle size to ensure that you get the right size handle replacement. After you've determined the spindle length of the handle you currently have, browse our range of espag handles and find the ideal design for your windows.
We carry a huge assortment of white uPVC inline espagnolette handles available in both key-locking and not-key-locking versions. You can select from a range of colors and spindle sizes to match your new handles with the frame of your window or décor. Our espagnolette handle collection features contemporary and contemporary styles as traditional designs, and each replacement handle comes with a 5 different magnetic spindle lengths between 15mm and 55mm making it easy to fit the handle to your window without having to purchase the exact size of screw!
A clever rose on the back of the rose ensures the spindle fits in the right spot and is only inserted with the right-hand or left-hand lever, which will prevent any mishaps. A spindle made of metal is used to secure the espagnolette handle. The handle is secured by an innovative mechanism called a click-fit that is activated by turning the handle with a hand, revealing an audible "click".