Window Handles 101: Your Ultimate Guide For Beginners

· 6 min read
Window Handles 101: Your Ultimate Guide For Beginners

Window Handles

Window handles come in a variety of styles and colors to fit your home. They open and close double-glazed windows by using a concealed locking mechanism.

It is crucial to measure the spindle before replacing your handle. This is the distance the nose extends from the base plate, or how far it goes into 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 handles includes both cranked and straight styles, in a variety of finishes, including brass, chrome and black.

Each handle is constructed of durable die cast zinc and powder coated or plated to provide high resistance to corrosion and impact resistance, as well as protection against wear. They are made to be used on uPVC or aluminum windows that feature an espagnolette or shot bolt mechanism. They can be locked into the closed position with a key or a push button.

The majority of espagnolette handles come with seven millimeter squared spindles that is inserted into the lever backplate to fit into a lock mechanism within the frame of the sash. Turning the handle to activate the lock. When choosing a new espagnolette handle it is essential to take the spindle length into consideration since this will determine how your window will open. The spindle's size will be indicated on the backplate of the handle with numbers like '5 3/4', '5', or '2/3'. This is the one you must test against your current handle to ensure it will fit.

Cranked windows with espagnolette handles are a different option to straight handles and are offered in left-handed (opened clockwise) or right-handed (opened anti-clockwise) models based on how you open your window. The cranked design is designed to provide you with more hand space when opening the window, which is ideal for windows that are close to the frame's edge.

The cockspur handle is a variant of the espagnolette handle, with a cockspur which closes by striker plates that are similar to an espagnolette multi-point lock. This handle can be used to repair the cockspur handles that were previously used on UPVC or aluminum windows.

Both cranked and cockspur handle models can be fitted with a key-lock insert in order to provide additional security, these are available in a variety of hand options and include the option of a black blanking plug those who prefer their window handle unlocked or wish to highlight the handle as fire escape only.

Cockspur Handles

The Cockspur handle is a traditional window handle with spur (triangle bit) which presses up against the wedge found on the frame when the handle is closed. They are typically found on older aluminium or uPVC windows without an internal mechanism to secure the frame. The cockspur handles hold them in place.

The handles are available in a wide range of nib and nose height options to fit different profiles. These handles are also suitable for left and right hand window systems. They are the perfect solution for those who want to replace a window handle that's worn or faulty, but don't require more complicated internal gadgetry.

Our Sparta cockspur handle is made of high-quality materials and is widely used in a range of applications. It has a sleek, ergonomic design and comes with a standard lockable deadlock cylinder to provide greater security. It is available in a variety of backset heights that are compatible with all common casement size and can be used in conjunction with a full set of window accessories that match.

In-line cockspurs are straight, and can be turned left or right. Cranked cockspurs have a short "nose" that rests on an aluminum plate that is attached to the frame. It's easy to operate and can be locked or unlocked with the key to provide additional security.

Espagnolette handles are thought to be more secure than cockspur handles since they have spindles that rotate to operate multiple locks that are hidden within the frame. These handles are a great solution for those looking for an extra secure handle for their double-glazing. They are available in a variety of styles to match your home.

If you're purchasing a new set of double-glazed window handles, you need to to measure the size of your windows that are already in use and ensure whether the dimensions of the spindle and handle will fit the new frames. You should also make sure you select an item that is in line with the minimum requirements of Secured By Design.


Tilt and Turn Handles

The benefits and functionality of tilt and turn windows is growing. They allow for multiple opening options and can be opened in different ways, which aids in cleaning convenience, allowing fresh air into the home, or providing the fire escape.

These handles are similar to espagnolette handles, but they have additional functions which make them better suited to tilt and turn windows. The lever can be positioned down when locked to shut the windows or 90 degrees to tilt it open as an opening window, or upwards to open the window.

They have a multipoint lock mechanism that is more effective than double-glazed casement windows against forced entry. When the handle is closed, the outer bottom hinge has locking pins which are engaged in a rail of steel that runs through the frame. The window's interior is held in place by two more hinges in the bottom corners which can be opened upwards, a feature which makes them ideal for larger windows and great for air circulation.

The open mode can be activated by turning the handle so that it is facing up. It opens the window with an upward tilt, which allows for better ventilation and makes cleaning much easier. The sash can be pulled into the opposite direction on both sides of the windows to create a gap large enough to accommodate an incline or a stool through.

Tilt and turn handles are usually larger than cockspur or espag handles as they need to be able handle the heavier and larger frame sizes they can be found in. They are spindle-based and utilize the exact same fixings that a normal espag handle or cockspur handles uses, but they will have a wider base and often larger screw centers.

uPVC frames, which are cheaper than timber or aluminium 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 a possibility for these types of windows as it's lighter and can be painted to match the existing style.

Handles for blades or spades

If you're upgrading your uPVC windows or replacing the ones that came with the property it is essential to select handles that complement the style and functionality of the window. In the end, the closing and locking mechanisms are as crucial as the frame, making it possible to use your uPVC windows efficiently and with no hassle. You also want to ensure that the handles are of top quality and will last long, rather than breaking easily or becoming susceptible to damage.

The spade or blade handle is one of the most common types of handles. These are commonly used on tilt and turn or casement-style uPVC windows. The lever is used to operate either a catch, latch or multi-point locking mechanism. The catch is connected to a mortice stay or peg stay that sits in the frame of your windows. It provides additional security and stability.

These handles are typically used on double-glazed uPVC casement windows or tilt-and-turn windows. They are designed for better ergonomics and provide more leverage to open the windows, making them easier. They are available in different designs to match any style of interior.

The handle will come with a spindle (7mm square) that extends from the back which is used to engage with the gearbox and get inside of the multi-point locking system within the window.  door handles  can be closed and secured more securely. Handles are available in different sizes to fit frames of various sizes. Some manufacturers also have straight and bent versions.

You can also increase the security of your uPVC windows by selecting handles that come with the key lock mechanism. These are great for uPVC doors and windows that are frequently used because they let you secure your door or window from the outside, making it more difficult for burglars to get in by forcing open or manipulating the handle.

Although there are arguments for and against a locking handle We believe that it makes sense as it will provide an extra measure of security for your home. Even if you don't believe that intruders are likely to break into your home, the fact that they may have a harder than they would with the key-locking handles will likely make them less interested.