The History Of Window Handles In 10 Milestones
Window Handles
Window handles are available in a variety of colours and styles to suit your home. They open and close double-glazed windows with a hidden locking system.
It is important to measure the spindle when replacing your handle. This is the length at which the nose extends from the base plate or how far it extends into lock.
Espag Handles
Espag handles are used to lock multi-point locks on double-glazed windows, allowing the handle to rotate a series of locks around the window for greater security. Our collection of espagnolette window handles include straight and cranked styles with a variety of finishes including chrome, brass black, forged and black.
Each handle is constructed from sturdy die-cast zinc, which is then powder-coated or plated for high corrosion resistance, impact strength and protection from scratching. They are specifically designed to be used on uPVC and aluminium windows that have espagnolette or shoot bolt mechanisms. They can be locked in the closed position with a key or push button to lock in place.
The handle of an espagnolette is typically a 7mm squared rod which runs through the backplate of the lever and into the lock mechanism in the frame of the sash. The handle is turned to activate the lock mechanism. It is important to consider the size of the spindle before selecting a new handle for your window that is espagnolette. This will determine the way it can be opened. The size of the spindle will be marked with numbers on the handle backplate like '5" or '3/4" or 2/3" and you'll need to measure this against your current handle to ensure that it is suitable.
Cranked window handles made of espagnolette are a great alternative to straight handles and are supplied in left-handed (opened clockwise) or right-handed (opened anti-clockwise) versions depending on how you open your window. The cranked design gives you more clearance to open the window. This is ideal for windows close to the frame.
The cockspur is a variant of the espagnolette handle with a cockspur that closes with a striker plate similar to an espagnolette multiple-point lock. This handle can be used to repair the cockspur handles that were previously used on UPVC or windows made of aluminium.
Crankspur and cranked handle models can be supplied with a key lock insert to provide additional security, these are available in a variety of hand options and come with an black blanking plug for those who prefer their window handle to be unlocked or prefer to use it as a fire escape only.
Cockspur Handles
The handle cockspur is a traditional window handle that has a spur (triangle bit) that presses against the wedge that is on the frame when the handle is closed. These are often found on older windows made of aluminium or uPVC casement windows which do not have an internal mechanism for securing the frame. Therefore, they depend on the cockspur handle to hold them together.
They are available in a large variety of nose and nib height options to suit many different profiles. These handles are suitable for left and right hand window systems. They're the ideal solution for those looking to replace a 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 popular for a wide range of applications. It features a sleek and ergonomic design and is fitted with a standard lockable deadlock cylinder to provide greater security. It is available in various backset heights that will fit any sizes of common casements and can be used along with a complete suite of window accessories.
In-line cockspurs are straight, and can be turned either left or right. Cranked cockspurs have a small "nose" that sits over an aluminum plate that is attached to the frame. upvc door handle is easy to use and can be locked or unlocked with a key.
Espagnolette handles are considered more secure than cockspur models as they use spindles that rotate to operate multiple locks that are hidden within the frame. These handles are the ideal solution for those looking for a safe handle for double-glazing. They are available in a variety of designs to match your home.
It's important to measure your windows prior to purchasing a new set. This will ensure that the spindle and handle are of the correct size for your new frames. You should also make sure to choose an item that is in line with the minimum requirements of Secured By Design.
Handles that turn and tilt
The functionality and benefits of tilt and turn windows are growing. They offer a variety of opening options and can be opened in various ways, which aids in cleaning, allowing fresh air into the home or allowing for an escape route for fire.
These handles are similar to espagnolette handles however, they come with additional functions that make them more suitable to turn and tilt windows. The lever can be set down when locked to close the windows or 90 degrees to open it like windows, or up to normally open the window.
They feature a multipoint locking mechanism that is more efficient against forced entry than double-glazed casement windows. When the handle is closed, the bottom hinge is fitted with locking pins that are embedded in a metal rail on the inner frame. The window's interior is secured by two more hinges in the corners of the bottom that can be opened upwards this makes them ideal for windows that are larger and is great for ventilation.
The open mode is activated when the handle is turned to be facing upwards and opens the window by a vertical tilt which provides healthy airflow and makes cleaning easier than ever. This is due to the fact that the sash can be pulled inwards from either side of the window to create a gap sufficient for an incline or ladder to fit through.
Tilt-and-turn handles are typically larger than cockspur and espag handles due to the fact that they need to be able to handle larger and heavier frames of the same sizes. They are spindle-based, and employ the exact same fixings that an ordinary handle made of espag or cockspur utilizes, however they have a wider base and usually larger screw centers.
uPVC frames are the most common windows made of uPVC as they're cheaper than aluminium or timber frames and don't require painting, but there are many wood-effect finishes available. Aluminium is another option for these windows as it's lighter and can be painted to match the existing design.
Spade or Blade Handles
It is crucial to select handles that complement the style and function. After all, the closing and locking mechanisms are equally crucial as the frame, allowing you to use your uPVC windows efficiently and without hassle. You also want to ensure that the handles are of good quality and last well, rather than breaking easily or prone to damage.
The spade or blade handle is among the most common kinds of handles. They are usually used on tilt and turn or casement style uPVC windows. The lever acts as either a catch, latch or multi-point locking mechanism. The catch is typically attached to a peg keep or mortice keep that is placed in the frame of your window and offers additional security and stability.
These handles are usually employed on double-glazed uPVC casement or tilt-and-turn windows. They are designed to provide better ergonomics and provide more leverage to open the windows, making them easier. They come in a variety of designs to match any style of interior.
The handle will include a spindle (7mm) protruding from the back. The spindle is used to engage and enter the gearbox that is inside the window of the multi-point lock system. The window can be closed and secured more securely. The handles are also available in a range of sizes that can be fitted to different sized frames and some manufacturers offer straight and angled versions as well.
You can also enhance the security of your uPVC windows by choosing handles with keys that lock the window. These are great for uPVC windows and doors that are used frequently as they permit you to secure your window or door from the outside which makes it much more difficult for burglars to get in by forcing open or manipulating the handle.
While there are arguments for and against locks however, we believe it's logical as it can provide an extra level of security for your home. Even if you don't believe that intruders will try to gain entry into your home, the fact they may have a harder to get past the key-locking handles is likely to make them less interested.