Window hardware refers to the various components and mechanisms that are used to operate, secure, and decorate windows. This includes things like hinges, handles, locks, latches, rollers, and more.

The most common search terms used by home owners when searching for window hardware online include:

• Window locks
• Window hinges
• Window handles
• Window operators
• Window latches
• Window weatherstripping
• Window balance systems
• Window rollers
• Window tracks
• Window cranks

Other common search terms may include the specific type or brand of window, such as "Anderson window hardware" or "double hung window hardware".

There are various types of hardware used in windows, including but not limited to:

• Locks
• Hinges
• Handles
• Operators
• Latches
• Weatherstripping
• Sash springs
• Pivots
• Balance systems
• Rollers
• Tracks
• Meeting rails
• Glazing beads
• Sash lifts
• Sill caps

Window hardware can be made from a variety of materials, including:

• Metal (such as steel, brass, aluminum, and zinc)
• Plastic (such as PVC and nylon)
• Wood (such as for sash lifts and handles)
• Composite materials (such as fiberglass or composite locks)
• Ceramic (such as for window glazing beads)

Some hardware may also be coated or finished with additional materials, such as powder coatings or plated finishes, for increased durability and aesthetics.

Window locks are mechanical devices designed to secure a window and prevent it from being opened from the outside. They typically consist of a locking mechanism that is attached to the window sash and a corresponding catch that is mounted to the window frame or sill. Window locks can be operated by a key, a latch, a turn knob, or a handle, and they may be made from materials such as steel, brass, or zinc.

Window locks are an important component of window security and can help prevent break-ins and unauthorized entry into a home or building. They are commonly used on single and double hung windows, sliding windows, and casement windows.

Window hinges are mechanical devices that attach the window sash to the window frame and allow the sash to open and close. They are typically made from metal, such as steel or brass, and may have a corrosion-resistant coating or finish for increased durability. Window hinges can be designed for use on different types of windows, such as casement windows, awning windows, or tilt and turn windows, and they may be installed in different configurations depending on the specific window design.

Window hinges are an essential component of window functionality, and they play a crucial role in ensuring that a window can be opened and closed smoothly and securely. They may also be designed to allow for easy removal or adjustment of the window sash for cleaning or maintenance purposes.

Window operators, also known as window cranks or window handles, are mechanical devices used to open and close windows. They are typically attached to the window sash and may be operated manually or with a motorized mechanism. Window operators can be made from a variety of materials, such as metal, plastic, or wood, and may have a range of styles and designs to fit different types of windows and aesthetic preferences.

Window operators may be designed to allow for different degrees of window opening, such as a limited opening for ventilation or a full opening for cleaning or emergency egress. They may also be designed to provide additional security or ease of operation, such as a fold-down handle or a handle with a lock or key.

Window operators are an important component of window functionality, and they can greatly impact the ease of use and overall satisfaction with a window system.

Single arm and dual arm window operators are types of mechanical devices used to open and close windows. The main difference between the two is the number of arms that are used to operate the window.

• Single arm operators: Single arm operators have one arm that extends from the operator and attaches to the window sash. They are typically used on smaller windows or windows that require less force to operate.
• Dual arm operators: Dual arm operators have two arms that extend from the operator and attach to the window sash. They are typically used on larger windows or windows that require more force to operate.

Both single arm and dual arm operators can be operated manually or with a motorized mechanism, and can be made from materials such as metal, plastic, or wood. They may also be designed to allow for different degrees of window opening, such as a limited opening for ventilation or a full opening for cleaning or emergency egress.

The choice between a single arm or dual arm operator will depend on the size and weight of the window, as well as the force required to operate it. Consulting with a window professional can help ensure that the right type of operator is selected for the window system.

A lever window operator is a mechanical device used to open and close windows. It consists of a lever handle that is attached to the operator mechanism and is used to manually operate the window. Lever window operators can be used on a variety of window types, such as casement windows or awning windows, and may be made from materials such as metal, plastic, or wood.

Lever window operators may be designed to allow for different degrees of window opening, such as a limited opening for ventilation or a full opening for cleaning or emergency egress. They may also be designed to be left or right handed, depending on the orientation of the window and the user's preference.

Lever window operators are a popular choice for their ease of use and simple design. They can be installed on new windows or retrofitted onto existing windows as part of a window replacement or renovation project. Consulting with a window professional can help ensure that the right type of lever window operator is selected for the window system.

Window latches are mechanical devices designed to secure a window and prevent it from being opened from the outside. They typically consist of a spring-loaded latch that is attached to the window sash and a corresponding strike plate that is mounted to the window frame or sill. Window latches can be operated by a lever, a knob, or a thumbturn, and they may be made from materials such as steel, brass, or zinc.

Window latches are an important component of window security and can help prevent break-ins and unauthorized entry into a home or building. They are commonly used on single and double hung windows, sliding windows, and casement windows, and may be designed to provide a secure and easy-to-use locking mechanism.

Window weatherstripping is a material or device that is used to seal gaps and prevent air, water, and noise from entering or escaping around the edges of a window. Weatherstripping can be made from a variety of materials, such as rubber, vinyl, or foam, and may be applied to the window frame, sash, or sill using adhesive or clips.

Window weatherstripping is an important component of energy efficiency and can help reduce heating and cooling costs by preventing air leakage around windows. It can also help improve indoor comfort by reducing drafts and outside noise. Window weatherstripping may need to be replaced periodically, as it can wear out over time or become damaged by weather or use.

Window sash springs are mechanical devices used to counterbalance the weight of a window sash and assist in opening and closing the window. They are typically installed in double hung or single hung windows and consist of a spring mechanism that is attached to the window frame and a cord or chain that is attached to the window sash. When the window is opened, the sash springs expand, providing upward force to support the weight of the sash. When the window is closed, the sash springs contract, helping to pull the sash into the closed position.

Window sash springs can be made from materials such as steel or brass, and may be designed for different sash weights or window sizes. They are an important component of window functionality and can help ensure that a window can be opened and closed smoothly and easily.

Window balance systems are mechanical devices used to counterbalance the weight of a window sash and assist in opening and closing the window. They are typically installed in double hung or single hung windows and consist of a balance mechanism that is attached to the window frame and a cord or chain that is attached to the window sash. When the window is opened, the balance system provides upward force to support the weight of the sash. When the window is closed, the balance system helps to pull the sash into the closed position.

Window balance systems can come in different designs, such as block and tackle or spiral balances, and may be made from materials such as steel or nylon. They are an important component of window functionality and can help ensure that a window can be opened and closed smoothly and easily.

Window balance systems may need to be replaced periodically, as they can wear out over time or become damaged by weather or use.

Block and tackle window balances are a type of counterbalance system used to help support the weight of a window sash when it is opened or closed. They consist of a block and tackle mechanism that is made up of a series of pulleys and a cord or chain. The cord or chain is attached to the window sash with a clip or other attachment mechanism, and the pulleys help to distribute the weight of the sash, making it easier to open and close.

Block and tackle window balances are typically used on double hung windows and can be made from materials such as metal or plastic. They may be designed to provide different levels of support depending on the weight and size of the window sash, and may be adjusted over time as the window system wears or changes.

Block and tackle window balances are a popular choice for their ease of use and durability, and can be installed on new windows or retrofitted onto existing windows as part of a window replacement or renovation project. Consulting with a window professional can help ensure that the right type of block and tackle window balance is selected for the window system.

Spiral window balances are a type of counterbalance system used to help support the weight of a window sash when it is opened or closed. They consist of a spiral rod that is encased in a tube, with a tensioning mechanism that allows the user to adjust the amount of tension on the rod. The spiral rod is attached to the window sash with a clip or other attachment mechanism, and the tension on the rod helps to keep the sash in place when it is opened or closed.

Spiral window balances are typically used on double hung windows and can be made from materials such as metal or plastic. They may be designed to provide different levels of support depending on the weight and size of the window sash, and may be adjusted over time as the window system wears or changes.

Spiral window balances are a popular choice for their ease of use and durability, and can be installed on new windows or retrofitted onto existing windows as part of a window replacement or renovation project. Consulting with a window professional can help ensure that the right type of spiral window balance is selected for the window system.

Window sash lifts are small handles or grips that are installed on the bottom rail of a window sash. They are used to help lift and lower the window sash, making it easier to open and close. Window sash lifts can be made from a variety of materials, such as metal, plastic, or wood, and may have a range of designs to fit different types of windows and aesthetic preferences.

Window sash lifts are an important component of window functionality, and they can greatly impact the ease of use and overall satisfaction with a window system. They may be used in conjunction with other window hardware, such as locks or operators, to provide a secure and easy-to-use window system.

Window sill caps are protective covers that are installed over the exterior window sill to help prevent water damage and rot. They are typically made from materials such as vinyl, aluminum, or copper, and may be designed to fit different types of windows and aesthetic preferences.

Window sill caps are an important component of window maintenance, and they can help extend the life of the window and prevent costly repairs. They may be installed during the construction of a new building or added later as part of a window replacement or renovation project. Window sill caps may also be designed to provide additional insulation and energy efficiency for the window system.