What Is an Espagnolette Lock? A Complete Guide for Homeowners and Fitters

What Is an Espagnolette Lock? A Complete Guide for Homeowners and Fitters

An espagnolette is a common locking mechanism for casement windows and French doors; it uses a rotating handle to operate a gearbox that drives one or more locking rods or shootbolts. This post explains what an espagnolette lock is, how it works, the main types and components, and offers practical trade and DIY advice for selection, fitting and maintenance for UK homeowners and fitters.

What an espagnolette lock does

An espagnolette provides multi-point locking by converting the turning motion of a handle into linear movement of rods that secure the sash at the top and bottom, and sometimes in the middle. For windows it gives weather-tight compression and security; for inward-opening French doors it is often combined with a deadbolt or multipoint keep to meet security requirements. Espagnolette systems are available for timber, aluminium and uPVC frames.

Key components

• Handle and spindle: usually a 7mm or 8mm square spindle that passes through the handle into the gearbox.
• Gearbox or mechanism: the central unit fixed in the sash that converts rotation to linear movement.
• Locking rod or espagnolette rod: the vertical rod or rods that move up and down when the handle turns.
• Shootbolts or locking pins: the actual bolts that engage into keeps in the frame.
• Keeps/strikes: the metal plates or housings on the frame that receive the shootbolts and provide secure engagement.
• Faceplate: the part visible on the sash edge where the gearbox is fixed.

Common types

• Single-point espagnolette: one locking point via a short rod; used on small casements.
• Multi-point espagnolette: long rods with top and bottom shootbolts for larger sashes and French doors.
• Centre espagnolette: a central gearbox with rods above and below; common on modern uPVC windows.
• S-shaped or mushroom cams: used in some designs to improve compression and weather-seal.

Choosing the right espagnolette: trade considerations

Selecting the correct espagnolette depends on frame material, sash weight, and security requirements. Trade fitters should check:

• Material and finish: stainless steel or zinc-coated for coastal installations to resist corrosion.
• Rod length and profile: measure from the centre of the gearbox to the end of the rod; rods are often sold in standard and custom lengths.
• Spindle size: confirm 7mm or 8mm square; many gearboxes accept either via adaptor sleeves.
• Compatibility with existing keeps: match the strike height and profile to avoid rework to the frame.
• Security specification: for projects requiring PAS 24 or Secured by Design compliance, choose espagnolette systems tested as part of a complete window or door package.

DIY and fitter-friendly fitting steps

These are general steps; always follow the manufacturer installation instructions for the specific product. Where power tools are used, wear appropriate PPE.

• Remove the handle: undo grub screw(s) and withdraw the handle from the spindle.
• Detach the gearbox: remove screws from the faceplate and withdraw the mechanism carefully to expose the rod ends.
• Measure and mark: note the existing rod lengths and positions of keeps; mark new keeps on the frame if replacing or installing new rods.
• Install new gearbox: insert the gearbox into the sash, ensuring the spindle sits squarely and the faceplate is flush.
• Fit rods and shootbolts: secure rods into the gearbox and test movement by hand before fixing keeps.
• Align keeps: fit and adjust keeps so shootbolts engage cleanly; use shims if necessary for fine adjustment.
• Refit handle and test: operate the handle through full travel to confirm smooth movement, tight compression and secure engagement.

Practical DIY tips

• Take precise measurements before buying replacement parts: measure the rod from gearbox centre to tip, and note spindle length.
• Photograph the existing setup before disassembly: this helps when locating keeps and aligning parts.
• Use stainless or corrosion-resistant fixings on exterior fittings; do not use ordinary steel in coastal properties.
• Do not overtighten screws into the gearbox faceplate; this can distort the mechanism and cause binding.
• Use a small amount of suitable grease on sliding parts: avoid general-purpose silicone sealants near moving metalwork.

Maintenance and troubleshooting

Regular inspection and simple maintenance extend the life of an espagnolette and prevent common faults.

• Lubrication: apply light machine oil or recommended grease to the gearbox and shootbolts every 6 to 12 months.
• Tightening: check handle grub screws and mounting screws; loose fixings lead to wear and misalignment.
• Alignment: if the handle becomes stiff or the bolts fail to engage, check keep alignment and adjust or shim the keeps.
• Replacing worn parts: swap out bent rods or worn shootbolts; many manufacturers sell repair kits that avoid full sash replacement.
• Seizure prevention: ensure drainage paths in frames are clear; trapped moisture accelerates corrosion of moving parts.

Common faults and quick fixes

• Handle turns but bolts do not move: check if spindle is sheared or slipped; replace spindle or gearbox as required.
• Bolt binding partway: measure for misaligned keeps; file or reposition keeps, or replace with adjustable versions.
• Noisy operation: inspect for metal-to-metal contact and lubricate; replace bent rods that scrape within the frame.
• Rusted components: replace with stainless steel parts and treat surrounding timber or frame to stop recurrence.

Security and standards

Espagnolette locks contribute to window and door security when combined with appropriate glazed units, frames and hardware. For projects requiring enhanced security certification, ensure the complete window or door system is tested to the relevant standards such as PAS 24; a standalone espagnolette is only one element of compliance. Consider keyed handles or sash restrictors for rooms that need added protection or child safety.

Recommended Products

Based on this article, you may find these products helpful:

• ERAB Espagnolette Window Lock Universal Lock Replacement
• Avocet Slimline Offset Window Espag
• UAP Keyless Window Restrictor
• TSS Keyless Cable Window Restrictor
• Restricted Friction Stay Hinges

Conclusion and next steps

An espagnolette is a versatile, widely used locking system suited to casement windows and French doors. Choosing the right type, measuring accurately, and following careful fitting and maintenance routines will ensure reliable operation and improved security. For product options, measuring templates and detailed technical guidance see our pillar resource at /guides/espagnolette-window-locks. If you are unsure about upgrade options or security requirements, contact a qualified fitter or our trade support team for tailored advice.