How to Replace Window Handles for Any Type of Window

The type, the spindle length and the screw spacing on a window handle all have to match your window exactly.

A handle can look identical to your old one and still fail to work.

This guide covers replacement: finding the correct type of window handle for your particular type of window, then fitting it. It works for any upvc double glazed window, whatever the different types of handle fitted originally.

Different types of upvc window handles – Advice by double glazing Glasgow professionals

The type decides whether the handle engages the locking mechanism at all, regardless of colour or finish.

A handle that looks similar but works differently won’t turn the mechanism the way your window needs.

Cockspur handles

A cockspur window handle turns a single hook into a keep on the frame. It’s a simple, single-point lock, found on older upvc windows, sash windows and some timber windows most often.

You’ll recognise a cockspur handle by its shape: a straight lever with no visible mechanism running along the frame edge.

Espag handles

An espag handle, short for espagnolette, drives a multi-point locking system through rods hidden inside the frame. Turning the handle locks several points around the window at once, not just one.

We fit espag window handles on most modern upvc windows and double glazed windows, more often than cockspur ones.

Tilt and turn and in-line handles

Tilt and turn handles work a window that both tilts open at the top and swings open fully on its side hinges.

The handle position, not just the turn, decides which mode the window’s in.

In-line upvc window handles, sometimes called universal window handles, sit flush and low against the frame. That low projection from the frame is designed to poke through the blinds without catching, venetian blinds included.

Measuring for the right type of window handle

After confirming the lock type, we’d always check the spindle next. That’s the metal rod, the spindle on the back of the handle, that goes into the window frame and turns the locking mechanism.

Spindle length varies.

Common sizes run from a 7mm spindle and 9mm up to 15mm, 20mm and 21mm. Some tilt and turn spindles reach 30mm, 40mm or 43mm.

Fitting the wrong spindle length means the handle won’t grip the mechanism properly, even if everything else about it matches.

Backset is the distance between the spindle and the two screw holes either side of it.

A 43mm backset is the standard found on most upvc windows, though older upvc and some wooden windows use different step heights.

Measure your existing handle before you order a replacement. Note the spindle length, the backset, and the overall handle length, since all three affect fit.

Style, finish and handing

Type and size are fixed by your window, but the look you choose is entirely up to you. Spade or blade handles have a flat, classic shape.

Cranked handles sit at an angle, which helps them clear a window sill or blind.

Finishes are typically made from aluminium or chrome, with a plain white or a polished metal look both widely available, and matt finishes also available.

Take a look at the finish already on your other windows if you want a consistent look across the house, aluminium windows especially.

Some styles are also handed, and come in left and right versions. Certain designs only turn left or right, depending on which side of the window they sit.

Some handles carry a security rating, such as TS007 or Secured by Design, particularly on handles fitted at ground floor level.

Ground floor windows are the ones most likely to need that rating checked before you buy.

Step-by-step: fitting your new window handle

Fitting a new handle doesn’t take too long with the right tools. Most upvc window handles are held on with two screws hidden under a small cover plate at the base.

Flip or slide the cover plate open, then unscrew the old handle and pull it away from the spindle.

Fit the new handle onto the spindle in the same orientation as the old one.

Replace the two screws, checking the handle sits flush against the window as you tighten.

Some handles click into place, or the handle closes with a slight bolt action, before the screws even go in. That confirms the spindle has seated properly.

Test the window through a full open, close and lock cycle before you refit the cover plate.

If a wedge or restrictor is fitted to the window, check it still moves freely with the new handle in place.

Why fitting it correctly matters

A handle that isn’t seated properly on the spindle can still turn and look locked.

The multi-point mechanism inside might not fully engage every hook and bolt around the frame, though, leaving a real gap in your window’s security.

That’s exactly why the click or bolt action when you fit a new handle matters. It confirms the spindle has seated and the locking points have engaged fully, not just that the screws are in.

Any TS007 or Secured by Design rating your handle carries only holds up if it’s fitted correctly.

An incorrectly fitted handle undermines that rating, whatever’s printed on the box.

If you’re unsure whether a handle has locked properly, it’s worth having someone check it rather than assume a working turn means a secure window.

Not completely confident? Always call a professional.

We believe a safer home is a properly fitted one.

Window handle replacement: questions answered

Can window handles be replaced?

Yes, and it’s usually straightforward once you have the right handle. The two screws under the cover plate are the only fixings holding most upvc window handles in place.

Are window handles a standard size?

Not entirely. Spindle length and backset both vary between manufacturers, which is why measuring your existing handle matters more than assuming a universal fit.

How do I know what window handle I need?

Check the lock type first, cockspur or espag, then measure the spindle length and backset from your existing handle. Those three details, plus the type of handle you want, narrow the replacement options down to a handful of compatible handles you can install.

What is a backset on a window handle?

It’s the distance from the centre of the spindle to the two screw holes either side of it. Getting the backset wrong means the screws won’t line up with the fixing holes at all.

Do all window handles fit all upvc windows?

No. Type, spindle length and backset all need to match, so a handle that fits a neighbour’s window won’t necessarily fit yours. Checking those three details first saves a return trip to the shop.

Get the right handle fitted properly with Totalseal

Sourcing the exact match yourself can mean a few false starts if the type or size is even slightly off.

If you’re not sure which type or size your window needs, we can help you identify it rather than risk ordering the wrong one.

We supply and fit replacement window handles across Central Scotland, including bespoke sizes found on upvc windows that aren’t off-the-shelf. Every job comes with our 5-year guarantee. If the problem turns out to be the locking mechanism rather than the handle itself, our window repair team covers that too.

Get in touch through our contact page for honest advice and a free, no-obligation quote.