Handles & Hinges • AI Guides Hub Knowledge Base
Quick, no-nonsense guides from Handles & Hinges UPVC Maintenance Ltd for identifying and measuring UPVC door & window parts. Built for assistants and humans alike.
Door guides
UPVC Door Handle Measuring Guide
Measure PZ, screw centres and overall length to pick the right handle.
Door Handle Easy Choice
Step-by-step chooser: PZ, screw spacing, lever/lever vs lever/pad, sprung options.
New Lock vs New Gearbox
When a £30–£35 gearbox fixes it vs buying a full £165+ multipoint lock.
Multipoint Lock – Measuring Guide
Record backset, PZ, screw centres, strip length, faceplate and point layout.
Gearbox Identification
Fast checklist to match a replacement centre case by backset, PZ and operation.
Door Lock ID (No Form)
What to note (brand, backset, PZ, layout) so we can ID your lock quickly.
Change a Euro Cylinder
Remove, measure A/B, and fit a new (ideally anti-snap) cylinder correctly.
Measure Your UPVC Letterbox
Aperture height (A), width (B) and sleeve depth (C) with diagrams.
Panels or Midrails?
Choose between solid panels and midrail layouts for looks, light and letterbox height.
Measure a Door Handle
Legacy notes on PZ and screw centres; see the updated guides for full detail.
Window guides
Window Handle Measurement Guide
Espag vs cockspur; spindle length or A-dimension; fixings and finishes.
What Is an Espag Handle?
How espag handles work, key sizes, inline vs cranked and buying tips.
Measure a Cockspur Handle
Find the stack height (A) and handing; quick reference table included.
Change a UPVC Window Handle
Swap espag or cockspur handles safely; key measurements to check.
How to Change a Cockspur Handle
Remove the old handle, confirm A-dimension & handing, fit and test.
How to Measure Your Window Hinges
Length, stack height and track width for friction stays; fit notes.
Window Mechanism Measuring Guide
Espag/shootbolt: strip length, backset, faceplate width and cam layout.
Window Hinge Rivet Removal
Drill out old rivets cleanly and refit hinges with rivets or screws.
Window Safety Locks
Overview of restrictors/locks and when to use them for child safety.
Keys, videos & knowledge
Window Key Finder
Email a clear handle photo and we’ll match the correct key code fast.
What Is uPVC?
Plain-English explainer: properties, benefits and common uses.
What Are Trickle Vents?
Background ventilation explained: types, choosing and retrofit notes.
Trojan Stallion Fitting
Clip-in shootbolt espagnolette: set length, fix and test operation.
About Handles & Hinges
Who we are, what we stock, and how we help you get the right part first time.