Spindles, what are they and how do I know what type I have?

Spindles: What Are They and How Do I Know What Type I Have?

Looking for replacement door hardware can sometimes be mind-boggling enough without having to also try and understand the industry jargon that is thrown into the descriptions. A frequent question from our customers is: "Your description mentions ** spindle, how do I know what I have?" Below we will break down what a spindle is, how to identify what you have, and the use of each type.

What is a Spindle?

A spindle is typically a rod of metal, usually square in shape, that connects the internal and external door handles together by passing through the center of the lockcase, which in turn operates the door lock. Depending on which lockcase you have, it may be possible that you have two spindles.

How Do I Know What Type of Spindle I Have?

The quickest and easiest way to identify the type of spindle you have, without having to remove any of your door furniture, is simple. Follow the flowchart below.

What is a Single Spindle?

If you can gain entry to the property once the door is closed, but the key has not been used, then you will have the most common spindle type, which is a single spindle. This means that your lockcase has one single spindle hole that runs all the way through, and your door handles will be lever/lever with the lever height being the same on both sides.

What is a Split Spindle?

If you cannot gain entry to the property once the door has been closed, even if it hasn't been locked, then you will have a lockcase with a split spindle functionality. This is sometimes referred to as a night latch function. A split spindle has a single spindle hole on the lockcase; however, when you look closely, the spindle is split into two halves. This allows the center where the spindle fits to operate independently on each side. As a result, when you remove the spindles, you will notice there are two, each surrounded by a spring (see Picture 1). This is because, when the lever is operated, it pushes the spring into the middle to engage, allowing the lock to be operated from one side while the other side does not move. Both lever/lever and lever/pad door handles can be used, and the handle height on both sides will be the same.

However, if you have a Winkhaus product, you may only have one spindle with a dip in the middle and a washer on it (see Picture 2).

Picture 1 - Traditional Split Spindle      Picture 2 - Winkhaus Split Spindle

What is a Twin/Dual Spindle?

A twin spindle, also known as a dual spindle, operates the same as a split spindle. However, instead of having one spindle hole, there are two (as the name suggests). The spindle holes are commonly 30mm apart, meaning that the handles and lock operate on two separate spindles. The key difference is that the height of the handle lever/pad will be different. These are known as offset handles.

Can I Change My Single Spindle to a Split Spindle?

Customers often want to swap their single spindle for a split spindle due to the added security function it offers. It is possible, but only if your lock already has this functionality. If your spindle hole looks like what is described in the "What is a Split Spindle?" section, then it is possible that you have that function, and all you need to do is replace your existing spindle with a split spindle. Our split spindle is available to buy here.

If you are still unsure of what you have and need help, please call our technical team at 0113 2360800 or use our contact form here.