UPVC window handles operate the espagnolette locking mechanisms that are fitted to the opening sashes of uPVC, aluminium and some timber windows. Turning the handle rotates a square spindle that actuates the window locks gearbox, and the gearbox drives the locking points that prevent the sash from opening. The spindles, which are part of the window handles, are available at different lengths. So, when purchasing espag window handles, you should ensure that you buy a handle with the correct spindle length.
Measure Existing uPVC Window Handle Spindle
If you have an existing, intact, uPVC window handle, then determining which spindle length to choose is straight forward, and begins by removing the existing handle:
- Turn the handle to release the window and expose the fixing screws. One screw may be hidden under a screw cap that needs to be removed first.
- Using an appropriate screwdriver, release the fixing screws, and carefully pull the handle away from the sash.
- Assuming that the spindle has remained securely fixed to the handle, we can measure the spindle length.
- Measure from the end of the spindle, to rear of the handle body, where it sits flat against the sash. This measurement is the spindle size that you need.
Determine Spindle Length without an Intact uPVC Window Handle
If you are unable to simply measure how far the spindle projects from the back of your window handle, then you can determine the required length by using a depth gauge. You do not need any special tools, a slender object, such as a nail, screw, or chopstick can be used. The following assumes that the uPVC inline or cranked window handle has already been removed from the window sash. Once the handle is removed, you will see three holes, a central hole through which the spindle goes, and two smaller screw hole either side.
- Insert your chosen depth gauge through the middle hole and through the square spindle hole within the espag lock mechanism. Insert the gauge as far as it will go.
- Mark the gauge at the point it enters the window sash, and remove for measurement.
- Get the gauge depth by measuring from what was the internal end of the gauge to the mark where the gauge entered the sash.
- Round down from the gauge depth to the nearest advertised size.
NOTE: Remember to always round down from your depth measurement to the size you need. For example, for a depth measurement of 20mm you should order a 15mm spindle. For a 30mm depth, you should order a 20mm spindle.
