Replacing a uPVC Window Handle: Types, Spindles and Sizing

A uPVC window handle takes more punishment than any other part of a window, so it’s often the first thing to fail. It might feel loose, spin without locking, refuse to turn, or simply look tired and yellowed.

The good news is that most handles are easy to replace once you know what to buy. This guide explains the main types, spindle lengths and fixing centres, and how to measure properly.

We’ll also show you how to tell when the real problem is inside the window rather than the handle. That one check saves a lot of wasted money.

Is it the uPVC window handle or the mechanism?

Before buying anything, work out whether the handle itself has failed. Plenty of “broken handles” turn out to be a worn gearbox or a misaligned sash.

Symptom	Likely cause	Usual fix
Handle wobbles but locks fine	Loose fixing screws	Tighten the screws under the cover
Handle spins, window won’t lock	Snapped spindle or stripped handle	New handle
Stiff only when closing the window	Locking cams catching the keeps	Adjust the keeps or cams
Stiff even with the window open	Worn or seized gearbox	New gearbox or espag
Handle turns, sash stays loose	Broken espag bar or missing keeps	Repair the locking mechanism
Key won’t turn in the handle	Worn lock in the handle	New locking handle

Here’s a simple test. Open the window and turn the handle through its full travel. If it’s smooth with the sash open but stiff when closed, the handle is probably fine and the alignment is out.

By contrast, if it feels stiff or crunchy with the window open, the gearbox inside the frame is usually to blame. In that case, a new handle on its own won’t help.

Types of uPVC window handle

Handles look similar, but they work in different ways. So, identify yours before you shop.

Espagnolette (espag) handles

These are the most common type on modern uPVC casements. A square spindle drives a gearbox inside the sash. In turn, the gearbox slides a locking bar that pushes cams into keeps on the frame, locking the window at several points.

Cockspur handles

You’ll find these on older uPVC and aluminium windows. The handle has a hooked “spur” that pulls the sash tight against a wedge or striker on the frame. Cockspurs are handed, meaning left and right versions differ, and the depth of the spur matters.

Tilt-and-turn handles

These control a window that tilts inwards at the top or swings open fully. They often share the same spindle size and fixing centres as espag handles. Even so, check the handle positions match your mechanism.

Inline or offset

An inline handle has a straight base and suits most flush sashes. An offset (or cranked) handle steps outwards, so your fingers clear a raised frame. Offset handles are usually handed, while inline ones generally aren’t.

Locking or non-locking

Most modern handles lock with a key or a push-button. A locking handle stops a child or an intruder turning it. However, many window handle keys are common across brands, so treat the lock as a deterrent rather than high security.

Spindle lengths and fixing centres

Two measurements matter most when you replace a uPVC window handle: the spindle length and the fixing centres.

Spindle length

The spindle is the square metal bar that sticks out of the handle base and drives the gearbox. On most uPVC espag handles it’s 7 mm square. Lengths vary widely, and handles are commonly sold with spindles from around 15 mm to 40 mm or more.

Too long, and the spindle bottoms out, so the handle won’t sit flat. Too short, and it only grips the edge of the gearbox, which can strip it. Some handles therefore come with a cut-to-length spindle or a set of spares, which helps when you’re unsure.

Fixing centres

The fixing centres are the distance between the two screws that hold the handle on. On most uPVC espag handles, this is 43 mm. That’s why so many handles are interchangeable.

Check the base size as well. A handle with a smaller footprint can leave old screw holes or marks on show.

How to measure your spindle

1. Remove the old handle, following the steps below.
2. Measure from the flat underside of the handle base to the tip of the spindle.
3. Measure between the centres of the two screw holes.
4. Note whether the handle is inline or offset, and which hand.
5. Photograph the handle, the gearbox hole and the window from outside.

If the old spindle has snapped off inside the gearbox, don’t guess. Instead, buy a handle with a cut-to-length spindle, or send photos to a repairer first.

How to replace a uPVC window handle

For a standard espag handle, this is a ten-minute job with a screwdriver.

1. Open the window and turn the handle to the open position.
2. Rotate or slide the base cover to reveal two screws. Some handles hide a small grub screw underneath instead.
3. Hold the handle, undo both screws and pull it straight out.
4. Compare the new handle side by side, checking the spindle and centres.
5. Push the new spindle into the gearbox in the same position, then fit the screws.
6. Tighten gently, because overtightening can crack the base or distort the uPVC.
7. Close and lock the window several times, then test the key if it has one.

Always work with the window open. On upstairs windows, keep a firm hold of the sash if it’s windy.

If the screws spin without tightening, the threads in the gearbox may be stripped. That’s a sign the gearbox itself needs attention.

Choosing a new uPVC window handle

Once you know the type and the measurements, the choice comes down to function, looks and quality. Run through this checklist:

• Type: espag, cockspur or tilt-and-turn.
• Shape: inline or offset, and left or right hand if offset.
• Spindle: 7 mm square, at the right length.
• Fixing centres: usually 43 mm, but always check.
• Locking: key, push-button or non-locking.
• Finish: white, black, chrome, gold or anthracite, matched to the rest of the room.
• Build quality: a solid metal body lasts far longer than a lightweight casting.

Older white handles often yellow over time. As a result, a single new one can stand out, so many people replace every handle in a room at once.

A word on security

A locking handle stops someone reaching through a gap to turn it. However, it won’t make a weak window strong. Real security comes from the locking cams, the keeps, internal glazing beads and good glass.

For new homes, Approved Document Q requires doors and easily reached windows to meet a proven security standard. On older windows, a hardware check is a sensible upgrade.

Looking after your new handle

• Clean gently: use a damp cloth and mild soap, never solvents or abrasive pads.
• Lubricate the mechanism: twice a year, add a drop of light oil to the locking cams and the moving bar along the sash edge.
• Turn it fully: always push the handle right into the locked position, rather than stopping halfway.
• Never force it: if it suddenly feels stiff, stop and find out why before something snaps.

A handle that’s treated well should last for many years. If it keeps working loose, ask for the fixing threads and gearbox to be checked during your next uPVC window repair.

uPVC window handle costs

Handles are cheap, but the right part fitted properly matters more than the price tag. Typical UK prices in 2026:

• Standard locking handle: typically £8–£30 for the part.
• Premium or designer handle: typically £30–£60 for the part.
• Handle supplied and fitted: typically £40–£90 for one, less per handle for several.
• Gearbox replacement: typically £80–£160 supplied and fitted.
• Full espag locking mechanism: typically £100–£200, depending on window size.

Prices rise for obsolete or unusual hardware that needs sourcing. With us, there’s no call-out fee and quotes are free, so you’ll know the cost before any work starts.

When to call a professional

Swapping a handle is a reasonable DIY job. However, some situations need a professional:

• A spindle has snapped off inside the gearbox.
• The handle screws spin and won’t tighten.
• The handle is stiff even with the window open.
• A cockspur has no matching striker, or the wedge has worn away.
• The window won’t lock at all, leaving the house insecure.
• The hardware is old or unusual, and nothing seems to fit.

A window that won’t lock is a security risk, so don’t leave it for long. We cover the whole area, including window repairs in Chilworth and Ripley window repairs. See our areas we cover page for the rest, or browse our full list of window and door services.

Quick answers

Are all uPVC window handles the same size?

No. Most espag handles share 7 mm spindles and 43 mm fixing centres. However, spindle length, base shape and handing still vary.

Can I replace a uPVC window handle myself?

Usually, yes. A standard espag handle needs only a screwdriver and about ten minutes. That said, a stiff gearbox or snapped spindle is a job for a professional.

What spindle length do I need?

Match the old one. Measure from the underside of the handle base to the spindle tip. If you’re unsure, buy a handle with a cut-to-length spindle.

Why won’t my new handle lock the window?

The spindle may be the wrong length, or it went in at the wrong angle. If the handle is correct, the gearbox, cams or keeps are usually the cause.

Can I swap a cockspur for an espag handle?

Not on its own. An espag handle needs a gearbox and locking bar inside the sash. So, converting usually means changing the locking mechanism too.

Get the right handle first time

A new uPVC window handle is one of the cheapest, quickest window repairs there is, provided you identify the type and measure the spindle first. If the handle turns smoothly with the window open, a new handle will usually do the job.

If it doesn’t, the problem is deeper in the mechanism. In that case, a repairer can fix the gearbox or keeps, so the new handle lasts. Learn more about our team and how we work.