Window Hinge and Friction Stay Replacement
If your uPVC windows are stiff, sagging, or refusing to stay open or closed properly, window hinge and friction stay replacement might be the solution. These components wear out over time, causing frustration in everyday use. At Window Repairs Sutton, we specialise in restoring smooth operation to your casement windows through precise replacements.
Who This Is For
This service suits homeowners and landlords in Sutton with uPVC casement windows experiencing hinge or friction stay issues. You might notice your window won’t close properly, sticks when opening, or drops at the bottom corner. It’s ideal if you’re dealing with double glazing repairs that involve window mechanism repair rather than full frame replacement.
- Windows that sag or rub on the frame
- Friction stays that no longer hold the window open at desired positions
- Hinges causing misalignment after years of use
We’re a local team with 10+ years experience, public liability insurance, and DBS-checked technicians, focusing on practical uPVC window repairs.
Common Causes
Window hinges and friction stays endure constant stress from opening, closing, and weather exposure. Over time, metal fatigue leads to bending, loosening, or complete failure. In Sutton’s variable climate, corrosion accelerates this wear.
Key culprits include:
- Lack of lubrication: Dry hinges grind and seize without regular maintenance.
- Overloading: Heavy-handed use or strong winds stressing the mechanisms.
- Frame settlement: Minor building shifts misaligning hinges, linked to dropped window sash repair.
- Manufacturing tolerances: Early wear in cheaper components.
These issues often tie into broader window alignment and adjustment needs, but replacement is common when adjustment alone fails.
Likely Fixes & Options
We start with a thorough inspection to confirm if replacement is needed over simpler fixes like lubrication or toe and heel adjustment. For most cases, swapping out failed hinges or friction stays restores full functionality.
Options include:
- Hinge replacement only: For bent or seized hinges on casement windows, using OEM-style parts.
- Friction stay replacement: New stays for windows that won’t hold position, improving safety and ease.
- Full set replacement: Both hinges and stays if multiple failures occur, often part of casement window hinge replacement.
- Alignment tweaks: Post-replacement adjustments to prevent recurrence.
Our approach avoids unnecessary work, drawing on our expertise in double glazing repairs. Expect the job to take 1-2 hours per window, with minimal disruption.
Related symptoms often overlap; check our guides on broken window hinge or window won’t close properly for more details.
How We Identify The Right Parts
Diagnosis begins on-site: we test operation, measure dimensions, and note your window’s make (e.g., common brands like Rehau or Veka). Photos and serial checks help match exact specifications.
We carry a van stocked with common parts or source quickly from trusted suppliers. Compatibility is key—no guesswork. This ensures friction stay replacement fits perfectly without frame modifications.
Parts & Compatibility
uPVC window hinges and friction stays vary by window size, opening direction, and stack height. Standard casement types use 13mm or 16mm spindle hinges; friction stays come in sizes from 300mm to 600mm.
- Hinges: Articulated or flush styles for left/right hand openings.
- Friction stays: White or brown finishes, adjustable tension for multi-point locking systems.
We only fit parts compatible with post-2005 uPVC frames, avoiding issues with older profiles. See our parts section for stocked options.
Related parts like handles or locks can be addressed simultaneously if needed—part of our window lock and locking mechanism repairs.
Pricing Guide
Costs depend on part complexity, window access, and quantity. A single friction stay might start from £80 including labour; full hinge sets from £120 per window.
- Basic replacement: £80-£150 per stay or hinge pair.
- Multi-window jobs: Discounts for 3+ windows.
- VAT included: Transparent quotes.
For full details, visit our pricing page. No hidden fees—we quote after inspection.
FAQs
How long does window hinge and friction stay replacement take?
Typically 1-2 hours per window, depending on access.
Can you repair rather than replace?
Sometimes, but worn parts often need full swap for reliability. We assess on-site.
Will this fix a sagging window?
Yes, if hinges or stays are the cause—common in sagging window repair.
Do you handle tilt and turn windows?
No, we focus on standard uPVC casement windows; see our services for exclusions.
What if my window is wooden?
We specialise in uPVC only, not wooden frames.
When Repair May Not Be Suitable
Not every issue warrants replacement. If your window is a sash, sliding, tilt and turn, inward-opening, or wooden type, we can’t assist—these fall outside our services offered. Extensive frame rot or distortion might require full replacement, not hinge work.
We advise honestly: if misalignment stems from building movement or failed seals, address those first via draught proofing, adjustment and alignment. Our ‘honesty section’ upfront saves time—call for a no-obligation check.
Related Symptoms
Struggling windows often share signs:
Related Parts
Explore stock:
Call To Action
Ready for smooth-opening windows? Contact Window Repairs Sutton today for expert window hinge and friction stay replacement. Call 020 8138 0796 or email info@window-repairs-sutton.co.uk to book your inspection. Local, insured, and reliable—let’s fix it properly.
