Windows Friction Stays (Hinges)

If an awning window (top hung) is frozen closed or the opposite just flies fully open then the Friction Stays need replacing. If one of the arms on the friction stay has come loose and the window is hanging at a funny angle just pull it closed sometimes it helps to push it in from the outside if this is possible and get the Friction Stays replaced as soon as possible they are sold as a pair and the window sash must be taken out to the inside to do this.

Another thing to check with aluminium windows is that the sash (that’s the open window pane) is sealing against the frame all the way round often ok at the bottom where the window handle has pulled it in tight but if you can see a gap at the top of the window then the friction stay (hinge) is not pulling it in and should be replaced. This gap can often cause drafts as well as whistling noise which in turn is also letting out heat.

Casement windows (side hung) are much the same, the older ones seem to have a problem where the window sash drops down and drags on the bottom frame we can replace these with a newer stronger Casement Stay often in stainless steel.

Window Handles

Broken or very loose handles are a security problem and frozen solid handles mean you can’t use the window both are easily fixed. However in a beach environment the window handle fixing screws can become frozen on and have to be drilled off.

There are 3 basic types of window handles and each type is dictated by how it is attached too the type and shape of joinery you have. We carry all the different handle options a one stop fix it shop to your door.

Face fixed type; where you can see, as the term suggests the screws that hold it on to the sash go though the front and you can see them by just looking directly at the handle. (Note some less common versions have cover caps covering the screws)

Sub fixed type; again as the name suggests these handles are fixed from underneath. The handle sits on an approximate 10mm lip that goes around the window sash and the screws come up though this lip and into the base of the handle. You can’t see them unless you look up from under the sash then you can see the screw heads.

Vertical fixed type; this handle sits on an approximate 14mm lip that goes around the window sash however again as the name suggests this handle is fixed from the top by screws that go though a plate which sticks out the back of the handle and into the lip of the window its sitting on. The plate that sticks out the back of the handle that the fixing screws go though is usually covered with a plastic cap which snaps on. At first glance this can make it look like the sub fixed set up above.

The vertical fix window handles are no longer available but an adapter kit can be use with a sub fix handle that sorts the problem.

All these window handles come in single tongue and for ventilation the double tongue option along with slim line versions to go behind sliding doors. Leaving a window open for ventilation on the second tongue is a security risk. (See safety stays)

There are a number of different models of window handles both passed and present day however they all fall into one of the three fixing options mentioned above the main problem areas are the screw hole spacing and matching old styles no longer made.

For window handle maintenance you can lubricate them we usually do this at the same time as we lubricate the window friction stays. 

Window Handle Wedge

Window handle wedges are what the window handle tongue sits on top of in the closed position to hold the window sash tightly closed. If this is missing it creates a security risk plus you can get drafts etc. There are many sizes and types depending on your brand and shape of joinery. Missing wedges are the sort of things that would get picked up in our free joinery and security check that you can book for free when we are already on site doing another job if you wish to have one of these checks done please book it in advance so we can allow the time.

Safety Stays

There are three basic types of safety stays which stop small people (children) falling out the window and makes it a 100% more difficult for uninvited big people coming in.

1: Detachable Safety / Security Stays

This type of safety stay is most popular and user friendly in terms of operation.

Detachable safety stays allow for full security when joined, made from high quality 304 grade stainless steel. This allows for safer ventilation and provides family security. It complies to NZ standards for multi-story housing.

The key is used to separate the two parts extending the window sash on a hot summer’s day or in an emergency when other exits are blocked . Internally fitted to the window frame and sash so you don’t see the detachable safety / security stay when the window is closed. Works well with window insect screen.

2. Safety Stays

This safety stay is a non-detachable restrictor for awning and casement windows, for those with safety and security in mind. The restrictor provides safe ventilation and deters unlawful entry. The stainless-steel scissor arm limits the opening to a maximum of 100mm or 130 degrees when installed in the recommended position. Restricts the sash opening to avoid interference with foot traffic at ground level. Works well with window insect screens.

3. The Security Stay

This safety stay is a window restrictor that provides ventilation for at-home security made from aluminum. Designed for use with projected top-hung and projected side-hung windows. These security stays limit the window sash opening to 100mm. Designed for safer ventilation and provides for family safety. This type of security stay is visible on the inside of the window. This type of security stay can limit the effectiveness of some insect screens.