Hello,
For our single-family home currently under construction, we chose anthracite-colored windows on the outside. The inside of these windows is white. We also decided on the opening directions of the windows. However, we did not specify or approve any further details with our site manager regarding the windows.
The windows have been delivered and installed. They look great until we noticed the position of the handles. They are not centered vertically but rather located in the lower third of the windows. Here are a few pictures:
Of course, we expected the handles to be centered vertically on the windows. Our site manager says this is standard practice and has “always been done this way” by the company, so it is not considered a construction defect.
However, when we look at the handle positions in our current rental apartment and consult other homebuilders, construction companies, and window manufacturers, we come to a different conclusion. In those cases, the handles are centrally positioned, or if no other information is provided, a centered position is assumed.
Our site manager and the contracted window manufacturer explain this positioning with a specific grid system, where the handle height depends on the window height. Here is the document they sent us after installation and upon request:
This explanation makes sense and is understandable. It reduces costs by limiting the number of standard gear mechanisms that need to be produced.
However, we were not informed about this beforehand and are very dissatisfied with the result. After all, we will be seeing these windows multiple times a day for many years.
Does this issue constitute a defect that must be corrected?
Thank you in advance.
Benjamin
For our single-family home currently under construction, we chose anthracite-colored windows on the outside. The inside of these windows is white. We also decided on the opening directions of the windows. However, we did not specify or approve any further details with our site manager regarding the windows.
The windows have been delivered and installed. They look great until we noticed the position of the handles. They are not centered vertically but rather located in the lower third of the windows. Here are a few pictures:
Of course, we expected the handles to be centered vertically on the windows. Our site manager says this is standard practice and has “always been done this way” by the company, so it is not considered a construction defect.
However, when we look at the handle positions in our current rental apartment and consult other homebuilders, construction companies, and window manufacturers, we come to a different conclusion. In those cases, the handles are centrally positioned, or if no other information is provided, a centered position is assumed.
Our site manager and the contracted window manufacturer explain this positioning with a specific grid system, where the handle height depends on the window height. Here is the document they sent us after installation and upon request:
This explanation makes sense and is understandable. It reduces costs by limiting the number of standard gear mechanisms that need to be produced.
However, we were not informed about this beforehand and are very dissatisfied with the result. After all, we will be seeing these windows multiple times a day for many years.
Does this issue constitute a defect that must be corrected?
Thank you in advance.
Benjamin
H
hanghaus200012 May 2021 10:25Visually, I don’t think this is a defect. Once you live there, you won’t really notice it anymore. You also get used to the operation very quickly if you open or close the windows several times a day.
vonBYnachSH12 May 2021 10:30Ours are not centered either, if that gives you some comfort. I wouldn’t have noticed at all…
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nordanney12 May 2021 10:35I wouldn’t worry much about window handles. In a new build with a ventilation system, I wouldn’t really see a reason to open the windows. Patio doors yes, but regular windows—almost never.
I have installed some fixed-glass windows in my house. Narrow frames, no mullion, which means lots of glass and a clear view outside.
I have installed some fixed-glass windows in my house. Narrow frames, no mullion, which means lots of glass and a clear view outside.
H
hanghaus200012 May 2021 10:42Bookstar schrieb:
I have never seen windows that are different. The handles are usually never in the middle. That would also be totally impractical ergonomically. Then take a look at the tables. Of course, the windows from the original poster have a lower handle position according to the handle position table.
Even standard windows rarely have handles in the middle.
In my opinion, the window manufacturer should have informed that windows with a lower handle position would be supplied. Because that is not the standard.
H
hanghaus200012 May 2021 10:46Myrna_Loy schrieb:
What does the quote say about the handles and fittings?Such simple questions then go unanswered. 🤨
As part of accessible building design, DIN 18040-2 Accessible Building – Planning Principles: Residential Units, Section 5.3.2 specifies that window handles must be installed at a gripping height between 850 mm and 1,050 mm (33.5 inches and 41.3 inches) above the finished floor level (FFL).
It is likely that accessible building is requested somewhere, and a barrier-free (curbless) shower is probably also desired.
It is likely that accessible building is requested somewhere, and a barrier-free (curbless) shower is probably also desired.