Essential Background of Hardware Required for Windows and Doors Fitting
UPVC windows & doors can be broadly categorized into – Casement & Sliding.
Casement: It is an openable system and profiles such as Frame, Sash, Mullion, Glazing-bead, etc., are required. While the Frame is common for both windows & doors in most of the profile systems, Sashes are different for windows & doors. Sashes are also of Outward and Inward opening types.
Both single-point and multi-point locking options are available for Casement windows. For single-point locking, Cockspur handles can be used along with a Friction Hinge (Top hung or Side hung) as per requirement. For multi-point locking, Casement window Espagnolette along with Casement window handle (Espag handle) and Friction Hinge / Butt Hinge / Concealed Hinge can be used.
Likewise, hardware is also different for windows and doors. For a UPVC casement window, a Casement Espagnolette of 20 or 22 mm backset is mostly used whereas the door needs a 30, 32 or 35 mm backset Espagnolette with or without cylinder locking option.
While Friction Hinge or Butt Hinge is used on a Casement window, 3D Hinge is required on a Casement door. While selecting the Friction Hinge, it is necessary to know the stack height (overall height of the Friction Hinge in closed condition). Most of the casement windows need 13 – 14 mm or 15 – 16 mm stack heights. Friction Hinges are available in different grades of Stainless steel such as SS430, SS202, SS304, etc.
Sliding: This system is available in 2-Track, 2.5-Track, 3-Track & 4-Track. While the Frames are different, Sashes can be used commonly but depending on the size of the windows / doors, suitable Sash can be selected from the range available. Sliding sashes are of non-euro groove type (for windows) and euro-groove type for doors.
Single point locking arrangement in sliding windows can be made with Touch Locks (and Keeps) and Crescent Locks. Multi-point locking arrangement in sliding windows/doors can be made with Espagnolettes (7.5 mm or 15 mm backset) and handles such as Pop-up handle, L-type handle, D-type handle, etc.
Rollers for Single point locking windows and multi point locking windows / doors are different in specifications. While single rollers are good enough for windows, Adjustable double rollers are required for doors. While selecting the height of the rollers, overlap of the system (8 mm / 10 mm) between frame and sash needs to be considered, apart from load bearing capacity required.
Suitable Wool piles (in various sizes), water-proof and UV resistant grade are recommended to ensure proper sealing between the sash and frame track. Feel free to get in touch with OBEN team: the best uPVC Windows and Doors Hardware Manufacturers for any assistance.
