UPVC Window Handles

Find the right replacement uPVC window handle here, whether you need an espag handle, a cockspur handle or a tilt-and-turn handle. Get the handle type, spindle length, and direction (inline, left- or right-hand) right, and the fitting is a ten-minute job. All handles are available for same-day dispatch, next-day delivery, and click-and-collect. Browse the full range below, or tell us your window type and we'll point you to the correct handle.

Which window handle do I have?

Most UK homes have one of three types. Espag handles are the lever handles on uPVC casement windows that drive a multipoint locking bar. Cockspur handles are the curved, beak-shaped handles found on older uPVC, timber and aluminium casements, sized by backset height (commonly 9mm, 13mm, 17mm or 21mm). Tilt-and-turn handles control windows that both open inwards and tilt from the top.

Once you know your type, our Spring Window Health Check covers what to look for if a handle sticks or won't lock, and our guide to window handles for a Victorian home helps you match a period-appropriate finish.

Window Handle FAQs

Are UPVC window handles universal?

Yes, they are to some extent. All UPVC window handles comply with industry-standard sizing, making it incredibly easy to measure them. Before purchasing replacement window handles, you only need to measure a few key things which we will go through below.

Are there different types of UPVC window handles?

There are several types of UPVC window handles available. The most commonly found handle on UPVC windows is the espag window handle. These handles feature a spindle that protrudes from the handle's base and operates the window's locking mechanism.

The second most popular handle is the Cockspur window handle. You can typically find them on older UPVC windows and also on wooden, timber, and aluminium windows. Cockspur handles use a spur that sticks out from the handle's side to lock onto the window frame.

How to measure your window handle spindle length

When it comes to measuring the spindle length for your UPVC window handle, there are a few things to keep in mind. The spindle length is the measurement of the spindle that protrudes from the bottom of your window handle. To accurately measure the spindle length, you must ensure that the spindle is fully inserted into the bottom of your espag window handle before taking any measurements.

In case your spindle or window handle is entirely missing, there's no need to worry. You can remove another window handle from the same window or another window from a different room to take the measurements. However, be sure that the window is made by the same manufacturer.

Are window handles handed?

When it comes to determining the hand of your UPVC window handle, there are a few things to consider. While most espag window handles are non-handed, some window handles like cranked UPVC window handles and cockspur window handles are handed by design. This means that a right-handed or left-handed window handle can only operate in one direction.

One of the simplest ways to determine the handedness of a window handle is by understanding which hand you use to operate it. If you use your left hand to open the UPVC window handle, then it's a left-handed handle, and if you use your right hand, it's a right-handed handle.

Here's another handy trick to determine the hand of your UPVC window. Handles that open anti-clockwise are right-handed, while handles that open clockwise are left-handed.

If you have older UPVC windows, you may find that they have cockspur window handles installed on them. These handles use a spur that protrudes from the edge of the handle and locks over the frame onto a cockspur wedge striker plate. Cockspur window handles come in various backset heights to suit different window styles and can be found on UPVC, timber, and aluminium windows.

How do you measure a window handle backset? 

Measuring the backset height is a straightforward process. You just need to measure from the base of the handle to the underside of the spur. This measurement will help you choose the right cockspur window handle for your window.

It's crucial to get the backset height right when ordering your UPVC cockspur handle. This will ensure that the handle fits tightly and doesn't leave any gaps, providing a strong seal around your UPVC window.