Espag Window Handles

Welcome to our espag window handles range for multi-point locking windows with key locks that meet your home insurance requirements. Read more about window security. Sometimes they are referred to as upvc window handles due to the popularity of this handle over the years and its wide use by upvc window manufacturers in the UK for double glazed windows. If you are still not certain that you are on the right page then review our guides for What is an espag window handle and How To Measure uPVC Window Handles.
These are replacement window handles for uPVC with a multi-point espag lock where turning the handle turns the locks down the side or the bottom of the window (not to be confused with cockspur window handles on older windows). There have been many designs over the years but the good thing is they have kept the replacement criteria the same as long as you have a 7mm square spindle and the fixing screw centres are 43mm then you can choose from any of the designs we shown in this section.
The popularity of this type of handle has led to much innovation in the styles and the functionality of the espag window handles range, offering much in the way of choice for the style or budget conscious customer. Take a look at our locking double glazing window handles range which is surely one of the largest ranges you can find anywhere in the UK and check the colours and designs we can offer from our stocked warehouse on a next working day delivery if needed!
If you are looking for specific types of espag window handles then we can help! If it is specific colours you need like the chrome espag window handles or the more modern anthracite grey espag window handles then we have solutions for you. If you prefer to look at all of our window handles to see which one is the correct type you need.

Cranked Espag Window Handles

The term cranked simply means an offset lever design and from a functional perspective the benefit is more generous hand clearance against the frame. This is particularly helpful where the espag handles can be right up against the edge of the frame making it difficult to manipulate the operation of the handle, so the handles are offered as a left handed crank or a right handed cranked design depending on the orientation of the window. Finding cranked espag upvc window handles is easily done by simply viewing the handle. When fitting to the window the cranked design must be the correct handing and this can be identified as follows: handles that open anti-clockwise are right handed and handles that open clockwise are left handed in all cases. You will be prompted to select the handing of any cranked espag window handle when ordering and the picture will show the handing you have selected.

Espag uPVC Window Handles 50mm Spindle

The nature of the design of these handles is such that a spindle (7mm square) protrudes from the back of the handle and enters the window to engage with the gearbox of a multipoint locking system. Depending on the size and design of the window will then determine how long that 7mm square spindle needs to be in order to reach and penetrate the lock system inside the window, which is what it must do. Over the years many types of windows have used the espag handle design and even though some sizes are more common than others it is possible that you can have any size between 10mm and 60mm in some cases. Aluminium windows tend to use 9mm (we call it 10mm), timber windows tend to use 30mm and upvc have used all other sizes as the frames can vary in size although 40mm is the most popular. One special handle of note is the 50mm long spindle espag handle size which was used by Anglian Windows many years ago. As most espag handle manufacturers tend to make their handles upto a 40mm size these days the 50mm size is very difficult to find - but not so here. Our range makes available two of our most popular handle designs in a 50mm spindle size. Just select the spindle size from the left hand filter of the page below and click the desired picture from the inline espag handle or the cranked espag window handle design that is shown as available.

Quick Tips & Links

Espag window handles are found on double glazed windows with multi-point locks. Just measure the spindle length!

How do I know if I have espagnolette window handles? 

Espagnolette window handles are found on most uPVC or double glazed windows where the handle turns a series of locks around the perimeter of the window. Inside the window is a small gearbox that connects with a 7mm square spindle from the back of the handle. The gearbox is then linked to the multi-point locks around the window.

How do I get the espag handles off the window?

It is very simple. There are two screws that fix into the lock inside the window. One is under the handle lever itself so when you turn the handle you will see it. The other is under a cap which may be stuck on or clipped into the base of the handle. They are usually quite discrete so you may have to use a sharp implement to prise the cover off to reveal the screw head. keep the screws as they will be the correct length and type for your replacement handles (new ones can be ordered for a small charge).

What do I need to  know to order espagnolette handles?

See our range of espag window handles or use our guide to help you with the important things to check when replacing an espag upvc window handle. The main thing is the spindle length which can be measured by taking the handle off the window by its two screws to expose the spindle. The spindle can vary from 10mm in length to 55mm.  The picture should explain it:

Espag handles spindle measurementIt is also worth making some other quick checks as older windows can throw up some unusual locking systems and different types of window handles.  The screws should be pitched 43mm apart (from centre to centre). Also, check the spindle is 7mm square (most are). If it is 8mm square, and these are usually found on Scandanavian timber windows, then you can use the special sleeves as shown here:

Espagnolette window handles may require spindle sleeves My espag handle has broken off the window and the spindle is stuck in the lever of the handle, what do I measure?

You need to find the measurement of the spindle from the underside of the handle base. The best way to do this is take the same handle off the window next to it and measure that one instead as they should be the same on the same window.

When fitting a new espag handle the back plate does not sit down flat on the frame?

There could be two main reasons: Spindle too long – you will need to re-check the length of the protruding spindle. It is not recommended that you attempt to shorten this as the material is hardened and difficult to cut. Such spindles require a certain amount of strength to overcome the torque and resistance to move the locking mechanism that in time may become more frictional. You will need to reorder the correct size. The holes in the PVC-U frame are not large enough – you may need to open up the two holes on the surface of the frame to accommodate location lugs. These are usually 10mm in diameter. Location lugs are much more the norm these days to ensure a much better location and stop the window handle twisting in use.

When I try to open the window the espag handle catches the frame and restricts me from opening the window?

On some very narrow frames there may be a conflict when using some handles with a bulky design. If this is the case, contact us to receive advice on possible alternative espagnolette handle designs.

How do I know if my espag handles are right-handed or left-handed?

Right handed - the handles open anti-clockwise and left handed open clockwise. All the pictures of cranked handles shown on the website are shown as right handed but you can order either option when purchasing (unless it is inline and opens both ways).

What is the difference between the straight inline espagnolette window handles and the cranked ones?

The inline handle can turn both ways so is universal in that respect. The cranked ones only turn in one direction and so are handed.

I have purchased an inline espag handle and when I have fitted it to the window the locks do not move and the handle is jammed.

The inline handles can only be placed on the window the same way the old handle was pointing. It is likely the handle has been fixed to the window the wrong way around. As the perimeter locks move in only one direction the handle cannot turn the other way.

What can I use to clean espag window handles?

Care should be applied when cleaning handles. Window handles can often be cleaned with a soft dry cloth. If further cleaning is needed use a mild solution of warm, soapy water on a soft cloth and dry thoroughly afterwards. To prolong the serviceable life of the handle, care must be taken not to scratch or damage the surfaces of the handle. Do not use wire wool or scouring agents.