Replacement window hardware, while it may be considered a relatively small factor during the selection process, can have a big impact on your home’s appeal. But, the fact is that variations in the types of replacement window hardware you choose can make more of an impact than you realize on how your home looks, as well as how your replacement windows function.
There are a number of different pieces of replacement window hardware to consider when replacing your windows. For each type of hardware, you may have more options than you ever thought possible, allowing you to completely customize your windows. Choosing wisely can improve the impression that your new replacement windows make on both the interior and exterior décor of your home and can ensure that they operate properly.
Types Of Replacement Window Hardware
When most people think of replacement window hardware, they may only be thinking of a handle or crank that is prominently visible on some types of windows. But, depending on the type of window installed, there are a number of options available that can fall into the category of ‘replacement window hardware’ and that you may have the option of customizing to meet your specific design tastes. Here are a few:
- Handles/cranks
- Locks
- Hinges
- Lift rails/pull stiles
- Muntins
Other features that may affect the overall look or functionality of your replacement windows include sashes, frames, flanges, stops and glass.
Replacement Window Hardware Design Options
The type of hardware that your replacement windows have will depend on the style that they are. For example, a casement window may have a crank handle while a double hung window is more likely to have a set of locks and lift rails. When it comes to hardware design options, you may be able to select from different types of metallic finishes, such as chrome, polished or antique brass or satin nickel, or the hardware may be colored to match the window so it seamlessly blends in. Muntins, stiles and rails, may be made from wood, metal, or PVC, or other composite material or they also may be made to blend in with the color and materials used on the rest of the design.
Functionality Of Various Replacement Window Hardware
Not only will the material and color choices of your hardware change the overall look, but the types of hardware you select may also affect the window’s functionality. It is important to consider the quality of the hardware to ensure that it maintains its functionality for years to come. Here are a few different types of replacement window hardware that will affect the use, safety and functionality of your windows:
Handles or cranks – Used to open a window type such as a casement or awning window, the type of handle or crank you select will determine how easy it is to operate the window. Some handles and cranks have locking mechanisms built into them, while others have separate locking systems for the window. These come in a wide variety of design options.
Locks – There are numerous types of locking mechanisms and the type installed may depend on the style of window as well as the level of security that you desire. Some windows come with a single lock and others have multiple locks. Some of the different locking mechanisms include the sash lock, latch and keeper, bolt and cam lock.
Hinges – Windows that open in or out, rather than sliding up and down or back and forth, will have some type of hinge system to enable the window to open and close. These hinges can make a big difference in how well and how long your window operates. They can also affect whether they remain open on their own or whether they will close when a gust of wind comes along. Be sure to make sure you have the proper type of hinge for the type of replacement window you have and that it opens in the correct direction (i.e., right or left, up or down). Also make sure you select a quality hinge so that it lasts, because hinges endure a lot of wear and tear.
Rails and Stiles – The rails and stiles help you move the window open and closed and can either be a seamless part of the window or can include an additional piece of hardware (such as a handle or pull) to make it easier to operate.
Muntins – These are used to separate the panes of glass within a window. They can actually connect smaller panes of glass to form a larger window, or they can simply give the illusion of a number of glass panes that are connected together. Muntins can be placed on the exterior of the glass or within the pane itself. Muntins can also be referred to as grilles, mullions, astragals or glazing bars.
