Choosing the Right Window Handle For Your UPVC Window Selecting the correct window handle is crucial for a well-fitting uPVC window. You'll need a style which is not only practical but also complements the style of your home. Changing a uPVC window handle is simple. All you require are the following tools and a couple of minutes of your time. Metal Metal window handles can be both a decorative item as well as an essential piece of hardware to increase the security of your home. A variety of window handles are available, suited to various frames and materials. Some of these handles are designed specifically for sash windows, to make closing and opening the window easier and less likely jam. If you're looking for a more secure option, there are a number of metal locking mechanisms that are designed to stop the window from opening beyond a certain level. The most common type of window handle on UPVC is the epag handle. They have a mental spindle at the back which is attached to the frame of the window and is the motor for the window mechanism. They are available on both UPVC and aluminium windows. Cockspur handles are a different type of window handle, typically found on older UPVC windows. These can be more difficult to operate than modern Espag handles, as they have the traditional locking mechanism for pegs. Cam handles are available for an elegant look. They feature a refined edge and are designed to be compatible 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 still allowing the top of the window to be opened. When choosing new metal window handles it is important to take into account a variety of aspects, including the height of the step and the direction in which the handle will be rotated. The distance between the underside and bottom of the screw plate is the first thing to take into consideration. The second one is the direction in which the handle can be turned. Certain handles can only rotate in only one direction, like clockwise. Others are able to rotate in the opposite direction. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/crawley-windowrepair/ There are a variety of window handles made of plastic. They are all designed to operate windows and protect them against unwanted invaders. They are available in a variety of colours and styles to fit uPVC and aluminium windows. Some of them also have a lock built in. This provides additional security and lets you leave the window open, while being secure from burglars. Window handle issues can occur in a variety of situations. Sometimes, they won't be able to rotate properly. This can happen because dust is able to penetrate the mechanism and blocking it or causing dirt. The most common issue is when the window handle begins to move in a tight manner. This is an indicator that the window handle requires attention. When this happens, it's crucial to call a specialist. They can help you resolve the problem quickly and effectively. They can also give guidance on how to replace a plastic handle with one that is more durable and more efficient. Whatever type of handle you're using most manufacturers will use the same fasteners. This means that it's easy to replace your window handle and lock with an exact match. It's important to know the dimensions and style of your window before you look for a replacement handle. This will enable you to choose the perfect handle that fits your windows perfectly and doesn't cause any problems. Note the size of the spindle, which is the distance that the handle's extends its nose from the base. This is an important aspect if you intend to use your new window handle with a limiter installed. Casement Casement windows are hinged at the top and bottom just like awning windows. They open in a horizontal direction to the left or right, rather than vertically. They are easy to maintain, and they provide a great view into your garden or yard. 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. However, with time, they can become difficult to open or close because of worn hardware or stripped gears. In some cases windows, a professional might have to replace the entire crank mechanism. Casement windows or awning windows typically come with a roto-gear or crank mechanism that allows the window to be opened and closed, but they also feature the ability to lock to keep the sash securely in place when closed. The window's lock is used in conjunction with the bezel frames to seal the window. Many people tend to overtighten the operating handle of a casement window. This can cause the locking mechanism to work against one another which causes the window to fail to open or shut properly. It's also typical for the handle of the window crank to become stripped over time. This could happen if the window has been closed and opened several times over many years. This can also occur when the window is being used as a prop while it's open, which causes its operating handle to rub on the crank shaft and gears. Replacing a window with a casement or awning window crank is a simple DIY window repair. It could save you money over time. The first thing you'll need to find the trim mounting screws that keep the casement cover in place (Photo 3). After removing the screws, you can remove the old handle and inspect the crank mechanism. The gears can sometimes be renewed lubricated, but if they're already worn out, it's time to replace them. Cockspur Cockspur handles are usually 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 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 within the frame to seal the window on closing. Replacing both the handle as well as the cockspur wedge striker will make your double-glazed windows much more efficient, and also increase security. The replacement cockspur handles are available for both left and right-handed windows and are operated by turning them 90degrees. They are fitted with a small 'spur' that pushes against the PVC wedge that is attached to the frame of the window to create a secure closure. These handles are easy to fit and come in various finishes, including black, white, satin chrome and PVD gold. How to measure the backset of a cockspur handle could be a challenge, particularly when you're replacing an existing handle. This handle has been created to address this issue and comes with three packers of various thicknesses which can be fitted on the underside of the handle nose to achieve a range 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 between 9mm and 21mm, with flexible screw fixing centres. It is also simple to put in and lock with keys, and comes in a variety of finishes. This cockspur handle will fit windows that tilt and turn but not side opening casement windows (which have a pivot that is separate from the turn and tilt). It can be used to replace old or damaged handles on uPVC or aluminium frames by using rivets rather than screws - the only difference is the method of attachment. The handle can be fixed to your window frame using the use of a rivet gun. Espagnolette Espagnolette window handles, also referred to 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 provide both aesthetics as well as security. Espagnolette handles are available with key-locking or non-key-locking mechanisms and come in both crank and inline designs. They can also come in a straight or curved design. The key-locking push button adds extra security as it stops the handle from being pushed open from the outside via an extremely long screw driver that is stuck between the frames - a very common method of burglary! There is a huge variety of espagnolette handles to choose from at GB DIY Store. Each one comes with a different spindle length that extends from the back of the handle. Therefore, when replacing your espag handles, it's essential to measure the current handle's spindle size to ensure you receive the right size replacement handle. Once you have done this, simply browse our range of espag replacement handles to find the best design for your windows. We carry a huge collection of white uPVC inline espagnolette handles in both key-locking and non-key-locking options. You can choose from a range of colors and spindle sizes to make sure that your new handles match the frame of your window or the decor. Our espagnolette handle range includes modern and classic designs and contemporary styles. Each replacement handle comes equipped with 5 interchangeable magnetic spindle sizes ranging from 15mm and55mm so that you can attach the handle to your windows without having to buy an exact screw size! A clever rose on the back of the rose will ensure that the spindle is placed in the correct place and can only be inserted using the left-hand or right-hand lever, avoiding any mishaps. A spindle insert made of metal helps to hold the handle to the espagnolette, and the handle is held firmly in place with an innovative 'click-fit' mechanism that engages when rotated by hand to emit an audible click'.