Choosing Window Handles
Window handles might seem like a small detail however they can make a an enormous difference to the look and feel your home. From brass-based fittings with a heritage look to elegant brushed chrome and nickel, the right selection will match your interior design.
You can also select lockable handles that come with a key to provide added security, especially in the rooms of children.
Material
Window handles are a crucial element of any window. They can either enhance or break the appearance of a house. They come in a wide selection of styles as well as finishes and materials. They can be installed on any type of window. When selecting a handle, you need to consider several factors such as aesthetics, functionality, safety and price.
Typically, made of aluminium UPVC or stainless steel windows handle can be completed with either a satin or polished finish. Stainless steel is renowned due to its durability and resistance to corrosion especially in areas of high humidity or salt exposure. Aluminium is also extremely strong and can be crafted in many designs and shapes. Both metals are available in a wide variety of colours so you can choose the one that best matches your interior design and windows.
Espag window handles may be the most common handle type on UPVC Windows. They have a mental spindle on the back that is affixed to the window frame and drives the window mechanism. They are available in a variety of spindle lengths. When you purchase an espagnolette handle, make sure to check the length of the spindle as this will determine how much it protrudes from the window.
You should also make sure that the window handles are Secured by Design certified to stop them from being opened by force. This is especially important for windows that are used by children or elderly people. There are handle types that let you tilt your windows, which is a great option for those living in high-rise flats. The monkey tail window handle is a long handle that resembles the tail of the monkey. It is used to tilt and turn windows.
When buying handles, be sure to take into consideration other window hardware, such as pegs and casement stays. These are long bars that are fitted between the windows' sash to secure them and prevent them from sliding about. You may also want to think about locking the handles of your windows to add another layer of security.
Style
Window handles come in a variety of styles and materials. Some window handles are practical and easy to use, while others have a more historical look. The right style is crucial for aesthetics as much as energy efficiency. The handles should match the door levers and furniture fittings to create a home look seamless. There are slim models of a variety of types that be used in areas where a full-size handle would interfere with blinds or other windows.
Some window handles come with an additional function that allows you to lock them using the use of a key. This is a great option for extra security and may be required by certain insurance policies. These locks can be installed on sliding windows and hung as well as on casement and awning windows.
Cranked and in-line are the two main types of uPVC handles. In-line uPVC window handles are straight and can be turned right or left and are spaced between the grips and the locking points.
Another option that is popular is the cockspur window handle which is held by two bolts. It's similar to the Espag handle in that it projects lower than the frame. upvc replacement door handles doesn't poke your blinds so it is an excellent choice for those who have thin frames and blinds.
There are a variety of styles available that include sash locks. This lock can be used to secure older windows that have a sash. It is ideal for those who want to keep their original window. It is important to check the specifications of a replacement handle prior to buying it. This includes the size of the handle and the direction that the handle turns.
It's also important to note that the finish of a window handle could influence its appearance. Select a matte or polished finish that complements your other decor. You can also match your window handles to your door levers and furniture fittings to create a cohesive look. The handles at Dauby are made of top-quality materials, so you can be certain that your new handles will last for many years to be.
Energy efficiency
Window handles make up a tiny part of your windows, yet they play an important part in their function and style. Whether you're looking to upgrade your windows or install new hardware, you must select a handle that is compatible with your window frame and design. A wrong choice can throw off the entire look of your windows, so it's important to choose the right design that is practical and attractive.
Energy efficiency is a major factor to consider when choosing a new window handle. Many manufacturers provide handles that increase thermal insulation, which can increase energy efficiency. Some of them also have an anti-draught seal which will block out unwanted air and cold. When choosing the most energy efficient window handle, select one with a low Solar Heating Gain Coefficient (SHGC) and a low U factor.
The kinds of window handles available differ depending on the manufacturer and type of window. Espagnolette handles, for instance, are fitted to aluminum windows and casement windows. The lever is both functional and decorative. It is part of the multipoint espagnolette locking mechanism that is hidden in the frame. They are designed to be pushed into the window frame, like door handles. They can be unlocked with using a key. Other kinds of window handles include cockspur handles, tilt and turn handles, spade or blade handles, and monkey tail handles.
Another factor to consider when choosing the most suitable window handles is their handing. The majority of uPVC handles are available in right or left-handed versions. Spindle sleeves can be utilized to solve this problem. The handles should also be suitable for the window frame with the front of the handle placed near the edge of the frame. Make sure to measure the length of the handle and the spindle's length as well as the height of the step of the handle, as well as making sure you know which direction it rotates.
You can increase the efficiency of your home by taking other steps, aside from choosing the best window handles. Check your window frames and handles for grime and dirt that could prevent a tight seal. If necessary, clean them with a damp cloth. Examine the weatherstripping of your windows. It may become brittle over time. This can lead to poor sealing, leading to air leaks.
Installation
Window handles are an integral component of the window and play an important role in its operation and security. They also serve as a crucial design element and can add to the look of your home. Window handles come in various styles, finishes and materials to meet the needs of every person. Make sure to verify the measurements before selecting a handle. The spindle and length of the handle are the most important factors. The distance between the handle and the spindle is called the length. This determines the space you have to open the window. When buying new windows, look for handles that are compliant with the Secure by Design specification. This will ensure that the handle can't be moved without an authorization key, thus stopping access by anyone who is not authorized and making break-ins more difficult.
Espagnolette handles are the most commonly used type of window handle and are found on UPVC windows. The handles are equipped with a mental spindle on the back, which is connected to the frame of the window and controls the mechanism. The handle is then fixed to the spindle and is locked in the open or closed position. This is a fantastic security feature that prevents children from opening windows unnecessarily.
Another kind of window handle is the push-button. It works similarly to the Espagnolette handle but with the added benefit of locking. The button is press to open the window, and then the key can be turned to lock the window. Once the handle is in a position that is lockable, it can't be moved. This is a great level of security and is especially beneficial in public spaces.
The cockspur handle can be a different kind of window handle. It is a handle that is secured by screws which are placed directly into the frame of the window. It is a popular choice for older properties or those looking to create an old-fashioned look and is often found in traditional timber casement windows. Other kinds of window hardware include casement stays and pegs that fit between the sashes to keep them in place and increase security. They are particularly beneficial in older homes where the sash window is deteriorating and needing repair.