Watch Out: How Window Handle Replacement Is Taking Over And What Can We Do About It

Choosing the Right Window Handle For Your UPVC Window The right window handle is essential for a well-fitting uPVC window. You'll require a design that is not only functional but also complements the style of your home. Changing the uPVC window handle is simple. You only need just a few minutes and the tools below. Metal The window handle made of metal can be a beautiful accent and an essential piece of hardware to increase security in your home. A range of metal window handles are available, which can be fitted to different frames and materials. Some of these handles are designed specifically for sash windows, to make opening and shutting the window more convenient and less likely jam. There are many metal locking mechanisms that stop the window being opened past a certain point. The most popular type of window handle that is used on UPVC is the epag handle. They have a spindle mental at the back which is attached 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 popular type of window handle typically found on older UPVC windows. They are more difficult to operate than modern Espag handles, as they have the traditional peg locking mechanism. Cam handles are available to give an elegant look. They feature a refined edge and are designed to work with a variety of uPVC windows. They are ideal for tilt and turn windows, where it is possible to open the window from the bottom, while allowing the top to be opened. When choosing new metal window handles, it is crucial to consider a number factors such as the step height as well as the direction that the handle can be turned. The first refers to the distance between the underside of the handle nose and the bottom of the screw plate while the latter is the direction in which the handle will be able to turn. For upvc door handles , some handles rotate clockwise and others are anti-clockwise. Plastic There are a lot of kinds of plastic window handles. All are designed to operate windows and secure them against unwanted invaders. They are available in a range of styles and colors to suit uPVC and aluminium windows. Some of them are designed with a lock built-in. This increases security, allowing you to keep the windows open and secure from burglars. Window handle issues can occur in a myriad of circumstances. Sometimes, they may not be able turn properly. This could be due to dust entering the mechanism, causing dirt or a blocking. Another problem that can be observed is when the window handle begins moving in a tight manner or is clinging to something. This is a sign that the window handle requires attention. It's important to contact a specialist when this happens. They can help you resolve the issue quickly and efficiently. They can also give guidance on how to replace a plastic handle with one that is more reliable and more efficient. Regardless of the type of handle you've got the majority of manufacturers utilize the same fasteners. This means that it's easy to replace your window handle and lock with a perfect match. When you're looking for the ideal replacement handle, you need to be aware of your window's size and design. This will help you find the right handle that will fit your windows perfectly and won't cause problems. Note the size of the spindle, which is the distance the handle nose extends from the base. This can be a vital factor if you want to utilize your new window handle with a restrictor installed. Casement Casement windows are hinged at the top and bottom just like awning windows. However, they open in a horizontal direction to the left or the right, instead of vertically. They are easy to clean and provide a great view of your yard or garden, as well as letting fresh air in. They're a popular choice for new construction, and they can add an architectural element to older homes too. However, over time they can become difficult to open or close because of wear-out of the hardware or worn gears. In some cases, a window professional may need to replace the entire crank mechanism. Casement windows or awning windows typically feature a roto-gear and crank mechanism that allows the window to be closed and opened but also include the ability to lock to keep the sash in place when closed. The lock on a awning window works with the bezel locks to secure the window. Many people overtighten their casement window's operating handle. This can cause the locking mechanisms to work against each other, causing the windows to bind and not open or close properly. Over time, the window crank handle could also wear out. This could happen if the window has been closed and opened several times over a long time. It can also occur when the window was used as a prop while it was closed and causing the handle to hit and damage the crank shaft or gears. Replacing a casement or an awning window crank is a straightforward DIY window repair. It can save you money over the course of time. The first thing you'll need find the trim mounting screws that keep the casement cover in place (Photo 3). After you've removed the screws, you'll be able to remove the old handle and examine the inside of the crank mechanism. Gears can be lubricated, but if they're stripped, you might need to replace them. Cockspur Cockspur window handles are found on older uPVC timber, aluminium and timber windows. These handles are easy to use, lock using keys and offer an effective barrier against cold and noise from the outside. The handle opens outwards by pressing down on the lever and the cockspur nose shuts over a wedge striker in the frame to seal the window on closing. By replacing both the handle as well as the wedge of the cockspur, you will improve the efficiency of your double-glazed windows and security. These replacement cockspur handles are available for both left and right-handed windows and can be operated by turning them 90°. They are fitted with an'spur' which pushes against the PVC wedge that is attached to the window frame to provide a secure closure. The handles are easy to install and come in different finishes including satin chrome, white and PVD gold. Measuring the backset of a cockspur handle can be tricky, especially when you're replacing an existing handle. This handle was created to solve the problem. It has three packers of different thicknesses that can be installed on the underside the handle nose. 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 key locking simple and simple to put in place it is available in a variety of finishes. It also comes with left and right hand variants. This cockspur handle is suitable for tilt and turn windows but it will not work with a side-opening casement window (these use an additional tilt and pivot). This handle can be used to replace damaged or worn out handles on uPVC and aluminium frames by using rivets instead of screws. You'll need a rivet gun and rivets to attach this handle to the window frame you have. Espagnolette Espagnolette window handles, also known as espagnolette locks or shootbolts are the locking mechanism that connects to the multi-point lock system within your uPVC windows. These are typical in older homes and offer both aesthetics and security. Espagnolette handles are offered with key-locking and non-key-locking mechanisms, and are available in both crank and inline styles. They can be straight or curving. The key-locking push button provides extra security since it prevents the handle from being pushed open from the outside by an extremely long screw driver snagged between the frames. This is a common way of committing burglary! There is a huge variety of espagnolette handles available from at GB DIY Store. Each has a distinct spindle length that protrudes from the back of the handle. Therefore, when looking to replace your espag handles, it's essential to measure the current handle's spindle length to ensure you get the correct size handle replacement. After you've completed this, simply browse our range of espag replacement handles to find the best design for your windows. We stock a fantastic assortment of white uPVC inline espagnolette handles available in both key-locking and non-key-locking options. You can select from a variety of colours and spindle sizes to make sure that your new handles match the frame of your existing window or the decor. Our espagnolette handle collection features modern and contemporary styles, as also classic designs. Each replacement handle comes with five different magnetic spindle lengths that can be swapped between 15mm and 55mm, which means you can easily attach the handle to your window without needing to purchase an exact size screw! A clever rose on the back of the rose will ensure that the spindle fits in the right spot and can only be inserted with the right-hand or left-hand lever, avoiding any incidents. A spindle made of metal helps to secure the handle to the espagnolette and the handle is held firmly in place thanks to the clever click-fit mechanism that activates when the hand is turned to emit an audible click'.