25 Jan The General Lifespan of a Window Mechanism
As the old saying goes, a handle, is a handle, is a handle…or something like that….. Is it not?
Well, possibly not. Especially if it is old and the handle is a little stiff with age or broken off so the handle will not operate the window mechanism, possibly even got very loose, or worse yet, so stuck the window cannot be opened or it cannot be secured shut.
So a handle is not always a good handle.
They may still have their luster, maybe not, yet if they are stiff to turn or broken so unable to be made good use of then a window handle replacement would be the better option, if broken, or the window mechanism itself replaced if it is quite stiff, or loose.
If the window handle is broken then it may be prudent from a safety point of view to get it replaced sooner rather than leave it until you want to open it. There may be sharp edges or the window may be needed as part of a fire escape system.
If it is the window handle replacement that is needed then this is a fairly quick and easy job, taking an experienced window engineer a few minutes to replace.
A window mechanism can take a while longer as it has to be sized properly so that the correct window mechanism can be installed. If left too long a stiff handle can cause the window to seize shut as the mechanism itself fails to work so you will not be able to savour the balmy summer breeze on that hot summer’s day. Maybe the handle has gone all loose so you are not able to secure the window, this may be due to the gearbox failing, which in turn will not move the multipoint locking mechanism thus preventing the door or window from being secured properly.
So we know what a handle is, as it is the sticky out part that we turn to open or secure the window or door, but what is the mechanism bit?
If you open your window and turn the handle you can see parts of the mechanism sliding up and down the side of the window. The same goes for the mechanism on the side of the multipoint locking doors. This visible part is the rail, and it has a specific length and width for your window type. The locking mechanism (or gearbox) for the window is inside the frame and is similar to a door handle. A bar is turned with the handle which rotates the lock, which in turn, moves the assorted parts along the rail to securely lock the window in place when shut, or allow you to open the window. These locking mechanism gearboxes may be too deep if you get the measurements incorrect, which in turn, will prevent the rails from fitting properly. In fitting a new gearbox the handle will need to be removed to gain access so if you would like a new or different handle style now would be the time for the window handle replacement option. The engineer will be able to check for any wear and tear which may not be visible with an installed handle.
Can you help yourself to prolong the life of your window mechanism?
Absolutely.
One word in advance of this…. Do NOT use WD40 it is not the right sort of lubricant. It is a water displacement spray, 40th formula, so it has a design for a different type of use.
Ideally, you would need something like a three in one oil or a very light oil, machine oil or very similar.
A little drop to keep the hinges operating smoothly and prevent those annoying squeaks.
The window locking mechanism may also need a little drop of oil to keep itself nimble.
Do not overdo the oil otherwise you may have to start cleaning up any runs, just a light touch will be sufficient
Any windows, or doors, which are in more moist areas may need to have a close eye kept on them, for example, bathrooms where there is likely to be a little more moisture from baths and showers.
If you have any doubts about your window mechanism or handles it may be prudent to get in touch with a specialist window team so they can check and make sure your windows and doors are all in tip-top shape.
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Photo by Rob Wingate on Unsplash