Choosing a Handle For Double Glazed Window
Window handles are a crucial element of any double-glazed window. They can help make your home more secure while adding a beautiful feature. The right handle for your window can be difficult, but we're here to help!
Espag handles are the most popular type of handle found on uPVC windows. door handles utilize the square spindle which operates a lock mechanism within the window frame.
uPVC
uPVC, also called Unplasticised Polyvinylchloride, is an ideal material for doors and windows due to its durability and resistance to water damage, and other weather conditions. It is easy to repair and maintain and can be painted to match the other parts of the window. It offers excellent thermal insulation. You can also find a handle made of uPVC for double-glazed windows that will meet your requirements.
Old uPVC window handles were cockspurs that had varying step sizes. They can be replaced by espag handles that have 30mm spindles. (UK version is square metal 7mm and Scandanavian 8mm). However, modern casement aluminium double glazing frames use multi-point locks which require a different handle called a dummy stay (also called a peg stay) to operate. They are secured around the opening window to provide a stronger brace to the opener and to pull the sash into the frame for improved weather performance.
They are typically secured with two bolts like the Espag handle, but with a smaller projection from the frame. This means that the handle will not cut through your blinds as can happen with other types of handles. You can also get a tilt-and-turn handle that works with your uPVC window to give you additional options for cleaning them from your home.
The final type of uPVC window handle is the monkey tail handle which features a long and ornamental design. These are more striking than standard pane grips, but they utilize the same spindle of 7mm as Espag handles. They are typically found in high-rise apartments because they make cleaning windows easier from the inside.
Two countersunk M5 machine screws are used to fix them at 43mm centers. They're popular for new replacements since they look exactly the same as the handles from the original and are available in left or right-handed variations. They're also compatible with a range of uPVC window locks and locking systems like the cylinder guards, which are attached to uPVC windows and door frame sash frames.
Aluminium
The handle you pick will make a big difference in how your windows perform. Aluminium frames are known to conduct heat and cold and if you select the wrong window handle lock, it could reduce their energy efficiency. There are many choices to suit your budget and preferences. There are a variety of materials to choose from. However stainless steel is the most suitable option because it is scratch-resistant and sturdy. If you prefer a traditional look then opt for bronze-coloured window handles. Aluminum handles are also resistant to rust, so they're a great choice for those looking to protect their investment.
Espag handles operate with a multi-point locking system and are the most popular kind of uPVC window handle. They are easy to clean and come in a range of styles and colours. The first step to replace window handles on uPVC windows is to take out the existing one. This can be done by lifting the caps made of plastic that cover the screws at the top and bottom of the handle. You can use a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to do this. After the caps are removed, remove the handle and replace it with a new one.
There are many different types of cockspur handles that are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. Some feature an arm or nose that fits over the frame. Others come with a wedge-shaped lock. There are also a number of designs available, such as tilt and turn handles or spade or knife handles. You can even find monkey tail handles. Some handles can be installed on both uPVC and timber frames, while others are specific to one or the other.
It is essential to determine the height of the handle prior to replacing it with the new uPVC handle. The height is referred to the "step height" and is measured in millimetres. The standard step height is nine millimetres on uPVC and 21 millimetres on aluminum windows. The height is also crucial, as it determines the force needed to operate the handle.
Wood
Whether you have uPVC, wooden or aluminium windows, choosing the right handle for your double-glazed window is crucial. Not only does it affect the look of your home but also the efficiency of your energy. A window handle that is not properly installed can let heat escape while letting cold air in, which wastes energy. There are many options, from mass-produced items to antiques.
Espagnolette handles can be found on uPVC tilt and turn windows as well as on uPVC casing windows. They feature a spindle that locks into the shape of a wedge inside the frame. They are a popular choice for security, and can be fitted with a child lock. They are typically straight, but some feature left and right versions for different window and handle types.
Other styles of casement handles include a plume style that locks into mortice slots. This is a typical design found on older casement windows made of timber and can be restored with authentic methods to achieve the correct period appearance. Another alternative is a shepherd's-crook type fastener that was utilized on the original timber sash and casement windows. It can be recreated using authentic techniques and finishes for a truly historical style.
Some aluminium or uPVC casement window models come with an adjustable hand that allows the operating arms to fold in the frame of the window when they are not in use. They operate in the same way as a normal casement window, and work similarly -- turning the crank in one direction, extends the operating arm and opens the sash while turning it in the opposite direction retracts the arm and closes the sash.
When choosing the right window handles for your uPVC or wood double-glazed windows with aluminium, it is important to think about both design and functionality. It is essential that your handles are properly fitted and are strong enough to perform their function. Make sure to measure the handle length, width and spindle length before buying. Make sure you know the direction in which the handle can be turned. Some handles can only be rotated clockwise or anti-clockwise.
Steel
Double glazing is a great way to reduce temperatures in your home. It involves using two glass panes separated by a gap which can be filled with an inert gas such as Argon. This can increase the insulation value of your window, and reduce noise. It can also help reduce energy costs as it limits heat loss during the winter months and reduces unwanted solar gain during summer.
To ensure that your double glazed window is properly sealed it is recommended to use a high-quality sealant around the edges of each pane as well as between the frames. These sealants are available at home improvement stores. These sealants are made to last many years, but they should be checked regularly to ensure they continue to perform as they should. Replace it right away if you find that one is not working correctly.
There are a number of different kinds of window handles for double glazed windows. Some are made from aluminum or uPVC while others are constructed from wood. All of them are designed to be easy-to-use and attractive. The most important thing to consider when choosing the right type of window handle is to think about your personal taste and needs. You'll have to select one that is in harmony with the design of your home and matches the overall look.
The handle operates the latch and catch, which are both fixed on the frame of the window. These can vary depending on the type, some with a hook keep that the latch slots over, while others use mortice keepers that are placed within the frame itself. Some handle styles are fitted with locks, usually simple grub bolts. They provide an extra level of security and make it harder to open the window.
The cockspur handles that are found on timber casement windows are made to look as slim as is possible and have shorter spindles. The length of the spindle can be a significant factor when you are replacing the handle on a window, so it is worth measuring the old handle and the spindle's length to determine what you require.