New windows installed, some with locking handles some without

50andOut

Registered User
Messages
218
Hi all

Wondering if there's an obvious reason why windows that I have just had installed, some have a lock on the handle but not all.

I wondered if it was a fire escape requirement but unsure why any have a lock in that case?

So far only the upstairs windows have been installed downstairs tomorrow.

Tnx
50
 
My understanding is that building regulations prohibit locking handles on all bedroom windows, which are also required to have hinges enabling the window to open to 90° wide. This is so you have a large opening that is quick and easy to open in the event of a fire.
 
Interesting Shirazman thanks, exactly what I was wondering - I figured maybe it wasn't only a certain amount had to be able to open out, but it just looks odd and I couldn't think why the upstairs would want a lock.

I just now checked the remaining windows that were delivered and due to be fitted tomorrow and I see the non lockable equivalent is there, so they obviously have put the one that was meant for downstairs into an upstairs room.....

However on one of the other windows, upstairs which has a lock, there is not an equivalent size downstairs, it looks like they ordered it wrong.

Q. Thinking ahead to how they will solve - Would changing the handles compromise the fitting? I ask because the outgoing windows all have wobbly handles and I do not want issues down the line so should they be taking back out and replacing properly?

Tnx
 
It is very simple to change the handles, I've done it on all my old wobbly, lockable handles. Just two screws each. You can buy sets of 10 handles online.
I swapped out all the lockable handles on my windows for "push-button" ones.
You could draw it to the installers attention and they should be able to swap them before they leave. The handles should be the same, regardless of the window size.
 
I am getting windows installed and all downstairs windows were marked with 'locks' and the upstair bedroom windows 'no locks' at the time the sales person explained that upstairs windows should not lock due to fire regulations.

I also had to sign off on all these items. Thus if it comes and they are wrong there is a record to protect me and vice versa for the company.
 
yep - I never had to sign off on it, but given they are directed by regulations it wouldn't matter if I did. They confirmed they reported it yesterday and that they were made wrong in the factory.

replacing the locks and fitting the safety catch on them will happen at a later stage. not great feels like a fudge job