What Is Window Handles And Why Is Everyone Speakin' About It?

· 6 min read
What Is Window Handles And Why Is Everyone Speakin' About It?

Window Handles

Window handles are available in a variety of styles and colours to suit your home. They open and shut double-glazed windows using a hidden locking system.

When replacing your handle, it is important to check the length of the spindle. This is how far the nose extends out of the base plate or how much in it will go into the lock.

Espag Handles

Espag handles operate multi-point locks for double-glazed windows, allowing the handle to rotate a series of locks around the window for greater security. Our selection of espagnolette handles includes straight and cranked styles, available in a variety of finishes, including brass, chrome and black.

Each handle is crafted from robust die-cast zinc that is powder-coated or plated to provide the highest corrosion resistance, impact strength and protection from abrasion. They are designed to be used on uPVC and aluminium windows equipped with espagnolette or shoot bolt mechanisms and can be locked in the closed position with a key or push button to secure the handle.

Typically, espagnolette handles feature seven millimeter squared spindles that is inserted into the lever backplate and fits into a lock mechanism inside the frame of the sash, and turning the handle to activate the lock. When selecting an espagnolette handle for the first time, it is crucial to take the length of the spindle into consideration as it will determine the way your window will be opened. The size of the spindle will be indicated on the handle backplate with numbers like  5 3/4', '5' or '2/3' and this is what you should test against the handle you have currently to ensure it fits.

Cranked handles are a more elegant design for straight handles. They are available in either left-handed versions (opened clockwise) and right-handed versions (opened anticlockwise) in accordance with the way you open your window. The cranked design is designed to provide you with more hand space when opening the window, making it ideal for windows that are close to the frame's edge.

The cockspur handle can be described as a variant of the espagnolette design, this one with a cockspur nose that closes onto the striker plate in a similar manner to an espagnolette multi-point lock. This handle can be used to fix the cockspur handles that were previously used on UPVC or aluminum windows.

The key-lock insert is available for both cockspur and cranked handle models. They are available with a choice of handing and come with a blanking plug in black if prefer your window handle to be unlocked or want to make it visible only as a fire escape.

Cockspur Handles

The cockspur is a classic window handle with a spur, or triangle bit, that pushes against the wedge on the frame when the handle is closed. They are commonly found on older aluminium or uPVC windows without an internal mechanism to secure the frame. The cockspur handles keep them in place.

These handles come in a variety of nib and nose heights to match various profiles. They're also suitable for both left and right hand window systems. They are the perfect solution for those who want to replace a window handle that's worn or damaged, but do not require more complex internal gadgets.

Our Sparta cockspur window handle is made of high quality materials and is a well-loved choice for a wide range of applications. It features a sleek and ergonomic design and is fitted with a standard deadlock lockable for added security. It is available in various backset heights that fit all typical casements. It can be used with a complete suite of window accessories that match.

In-line cockspurs are straight, and can be turned either left or right. Cranked cockspurs come with a short "nose" that rests on the frame, which is a plastic plate. the frame. It is easy to use and is lockable or unlocked using the use of a key.

Espagnolette handles are typically considered to be more secure than cockspur handles as they use a spindle to operate multiple locks hidden in the frame. These handles are a great solution for those who need a safe handle for their double-glazing. They are available in a variety of styles to fit your home.

If you're buying a new set of double glazed window handles, it's essential to take the time to measure your existing windows and make sure that the size of the handle and spindle will fit in your new frames. Choose a handle that is in line with the Secured By Design minimum requirements.

Tilt and Turn Handles

Tilt and turn windows are becoming more and more popular due to their functionality, efficiency and the benefits they offer. They come with a variety of opening options and can be opened in different ways to let fresh air in the home, or provide an escape route for fire.

These handles are similar to espagnolette handles however they have additional features that make them more suitable to tilt and turn windows. The lever can be set downwards when it's locked to close the window and 90 degrees to tilt the window open like a door or upwards to open the window in normal fashion.

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 has locking pins that are encased in a metal rail on the inner frame. The window's interior is secured by two hinges located in the bottom corners that can be opened inwards this makes them ideal for windows with larger openings and also great for ventilation.

The open mode can be activated by turning the handle in such a way that it is facing upwards. It opens the window in a vertical tilt which provides better ventilation and makes cleaning easier. The sash is able to be pushed inwards on either side of the windows to create a gap large enough to fit a ladder or a stool through.

Tilt-and-turn handles are typically larger than espag and cockspur handles because they have to be able to handle the larger and heavier frame sizes. They are spindle-based and utilize the exact same type of fixings that a standard espag handle or cockspur handles employs, but they have a larger base and often larger screw centers.

uPVC frames are the most common for these kinds of windows since they're less expensive than aluminium or timber frames and don't require painting, but there are also many wood-effect finishes that are available. Aluminium is another option for these kinds of windows, as it is lighter and can be painted to match the existing design.

Handles for blades or spades

It is crucial to select handles that match the style and functionality. The locking and closing mechanisms of your uPVC window are as important as the frame. This allows you to utilize them effectively and with no hassle. You must also ensure that the handles will last and not break easily.

One of the most popular kinds of handles is a blade or spade handle. They are typically used on tilt-and turn or casement style uPVC Windows. The lever is used to operate an latch, catch or multi-point locking mechanism. The catch is usually connected to a peg keep or mortice keep that is placed within the frame of your window, which provides an additional level of security and stability.

These type of handles tend to be used on modern uPVC double-glazed casement or tilt and turn windows.  window handles repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk  are designed to be more comfortable and offer a greater amount of leverage to open the window, making them more convenient to operate. They are available in various designs to match any interior style.

The handle will have a spindle (7mm) protruding from the back. The spindle serves to encircle and penetrate the gearbox within the window of the multi-point lock system. This lets the window be locked and closed with greater security. The handles are also available in a variety of sizes that can be fitted to different sized frames and some manufacturers also offer straight and angled versions too.

It is also possible to increase the security of uPVC windows by using handles that have a key-locking system. They are perfect for uPVC doors and windows that are frequently used because they permit you to secure your window or door from the outside which makes it much more difficult for burglars to get in by bending or adjusting the handle.



While there are arguments for and against the lock handle however, we believe it's logical as it will add an additional level of security for your home. Even if you are not worried about intruders trying to enter your property, the fact that they will be more difficult to get beyond the handle of the key lock will likely discourage them and make it less of a target for them.