uPVC Window Hinges Nico Universal Replacement Friction Stays Pair | Fits 13mm & 17mm Stack

Nico uPVC Window Hinge Universal Friction Stay Pair – British Made Premium Quality

The ultimate universal window hinge solution – fits both 13mm and 17mm stack heights with included conversion packers.

The Nico Universal Friction Stay Window Hinge is designed and manufactured in the UK to ISO 9001 standards. This premium friction hinge transforms stiff, difficult-to-operate windows into smooth, reliable opening systems whilst enhancing security and weather protection. The universal fit design eliminates compatibility concerns whether you're replacing worn hinges or upgrading performance.

Crafted from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, this friction stay is backed by Nico's 10-year manufacturer's guarantee. Every order includes clip-on plastic packers for perfect compatibility with both 13mm and 17mm stack heights. The non-handed design works flawlessly on left or right-hand opening windows, making installation straightforward for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. Successfully tested to PAS 24:2016 and Secured By Design standards for verified home security.

Key Benefits:

• Universal Stack Height Compatibility – Supplied with clip-on plastic hinge packers that convert the standard 13mm stack height to 17mm, eliminating measurement concerns and providing a perfect fit for virtually all uPVC window systems. Three packers per hinge (six per pair) simply clip onto the friction arm for instant conversion.
• Non-Handed Universal Design – Symmetrical construction means these friction stays work perfectly on both left and right-hand opening windows without any adjustment or modification. This versatile design eliminates ordering confusion, reduces installation time, and ensures you always have the correct hinge regardless of window configuration.
• British Manufacturing Excellence – Designed and manufactured in the UK to ISO 9001 quality standards with precision geometry that ensures smooth, positive closing action. Every component is engineered to tight tolerances for reliable, long-life performance that consistently outperforms imported alternatives.
• Enhanced Security Credentials – Successfully security tested as a critical component within PAS 24:2016 (when used with Nico Xtra Bolts) and approved under the Secured By Design police initiative, meeting Police Preferred Specification for residential window security. Provides verified protection against forced entry attempts.
• Superior Corrosion Resistance – Full stainless steel construction throughout ensures exceptional weather resistance and longevity, even in coastal or high-moisture environments. Unlike painted or coated alternatives, these hinges won't rust, corrode, or degrade over time.
• Reinforced Nose Cap Design – Features a stainless steel riveted nose cap secured with 4.8mm stainless steel rivets for exceptional strength and reliability. The three-stage counterbore process ensures precise manufacturing tolerances and eliminates weak points that cause premature failure.
• Variable Opening Angles – Engineered to provide multiple opening positions for convenient use and safe window cleaning from inside your home. Smooth, controlled operation throughout the full range of movement eliminates the jerky, unreliable action common in inferior friction stays.
• Glass-Reinforced Nylon Slide – High-strength nylon friction slide with adjustable screw allows fine-tuning of resistance to suit individual window weight and preferences. This innovative design eliminates the breaking and wear issues associated with metal-on-metal friction mechanisms.
• Maximum Load Capacity Proven – Endurance tested to three times the British Standard requirement whilst carrying maximum load capacity, demonstrating exceptional strength and reliability far beyond standard industry expectations.
• Comprehensive Weather Performance – Successfully weather tested as a critical component within BS EN 6375 Part 1 (air, wind, and water testing), ensuring your windows maintain weathertight integrity in all British weather conditions.
• 10-Year Manufacturer's Guarantee – Backed by Nico's industry-leading 10-year manufacturer's mechanical guarantee, demonstrating exceptional confidence in product durability and performance. This comprehensive coverage protects your investment and provides genuine peace of mind.

Product Specifications:

• Brand: Nico
• Stack Height: 13mm standard (converts to 17mm with included clip-on packers)
• Hinge Width: 18mm
• Configuration: Symmetrical non-handed universal design
• Material: Stainless steel construction throughout
• Friction Slide: High-strength glass-reinforced nylon with adjustment screw
• Nose Cap: Stainless steel, riveted with 4.8mm stainless steel rivets
• Fixing Holes: Slotted in base channel and sash bar for maximum adjustment
• Manufacturing Standard: ISO 9001 Quality System, Made in Britain
• Security Testing: PAS 24:2016 approved, Secured By Design certified
• Performance Testing: BS EN 6375 Parts 1 & 2 approved
• Warranty: 10-year manufacturer's mechanical guarantee from Nico

Available Sizes:

• Top Hung: 8", 10", 12", 16", 20", and 24"
• Side Hung: 12" and 16"

Please measure your existing friction stay carefully before ordering. Measure the visible track length (the long bar that fixes to the window frame) from end to end when the window is open. Round to the nearest whole inch – for example, if you measure 11.9", order a 12" hinge. It's not essential that the length is exactly the same, but choose the closest available size.

Pro Tips:

Pro Tip: When replacing existing friction stays, always check whether your window frame requires 13mm or 17mm stack height. If you're unsure, don't worry – these Nico hinges include clip-on plastic packers with every order. Simply attach three packers per hinge (clipping them onto the pivotal arm of the friction stay) to instantly convert from 13mm to 17mm stack height. This universal conversion capability means you can order with confidence, knowing you'll achieve a perfect fit regardless of your window system specifications. For optimal performance, use the adjustment screw to fine-tune the friction resistance after installation – tighter for heavier windows, slightly looser for lighter sashes.

Package Contents:

• 1 × Pair of Nico stainless steel friction stay window hinges (2 hinges)
• 6 × Clip-on plastic hinge packers (converts 13mm to 17mm stack height)

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I know which stack height my windows need – 13mm or 17mm?
The stack height refers to the measurement from the base of the hinge to the top of the friction arm when closed. If you're replacing existing hinges, you can measure this dimension on your current friction stays. However, with these Nico Universal Hinges, you don't need to worry about precise measurement – we include clip-on plastic packers with every order that convert the standard 13mm stack to 17mm. Simply clip three packers onto each hinge arm if your windows require the taller 17mm profile. This universal solution eliminates compatibility concerns and ensures a perfect fit.

Will these friction stays fit my uPVC windows if I don't know the original brand?
Yes, these Nico friction stays are designed as universal replacements for the vast majority of uPVC window systems. The non-handed symmetrical design with slotted fixing holes provides extensive adjustment capability to accommodate variations in frame profiles whilst working perfectly on both left and right-hand opening windows. The 18mm width is the industry-standard dimension for uPVC window friction hinges, and the included stack height conversion packers ensure compatibility across both 13mm and 17mm systems. As long as you order the correct length (measured centre-to-centre of fixing holes), these hinges will provide a reliable replacement with straightforward installation.

Are these hinges suitable for side-hung windows as well as top-hung?
Yes, Nico manufactures these friction stays in both top-hung and side-hung configurations. Top-hung hinges (where the window opens from the top) are available in 8", 10", 12", 16", 20", and 24" lengths. Side-hung hinges (where the window opens from the left or right side) are available in 12" and 16" lengths. The non-handed symmetrical design is a major installation advantage – you don't need to specify or worry about left-hand versus right-hand operation. The same hinge works perfectly for windows opening in either direction, eliminating ordering mistakes and simplifying installation. This universal fit capability means you can install with confidence knowing the hinge will function correctly regardless of which side your window opens from.

What makes these hinges more secure than standard friction stays?
These Nico friction stays have been rigorously security tested as critical components within PAS 24:2016 certification (when used with Nico Xtra Bolts) and carry Secured By Design approval from the Association of Chief Police Officers. The stainless steel construction with riveted nose cap provides exceptional resistance to forced entry attempts, whilst the precision engineering eliminates the play and weakness found in cheaper alternatives. The reinforced design with 4.8mm stainless steel rivets and three-stage counterbore manufacturing ensures the hinge maintains structural integrity even under sustained attack, making it significantly more secure than standard friction stays.

Can I adjust the friction resistance after installation?
Absolutely. Each Nico friction stay features an adjustable screw within the glass-reinforced nylon slide mechanism, allowing you to fine-tune the resistance to suit your specific requirements. This is particularly valuable when you need to accommodate different window weights or personal preferences. Simply turn the adjustment screw clockwise to increase resistance (ideal for heavier windows that need more support) or anticlockwise to decrease resistance (for lighter windows or easier opening). This adjustability ensures optimal performance throughout the lifetime of the hinge and allows you to compensate for any settling or changes over time.

Why Choose Nico Universal Friction Stay Window Hinges?

When it comes to replacing or upgrading your uPVC window hinges, quality matters. Nico's commitment to British manufacturing excellence, backed by ISO 9001 certification and a comprehensive 10-year manufacturer's guarantee, ensures you're investing in friction stays engineered to outperform and outlast cheaper alternatives. The inclusion of universal stack height conversion packers with every order eliminates the guesswork and potential for costly ordering mistakes, whilst the non-handed design works perfectly on both left and right-hand opening windows – making installation faster and eliminating compatibility concerns. The Secured By Design approval and PAS 24:2016 testing credentials provide verified peace of mind for your home security.

Whether you're a DIY enthusiast tackling a window restoration project or a professional installer demanding reliable components for your customers, these Nico friction stays deliver the smooth operation, exceptional durability, and security performance that British homes deserve. The combination of precision engineering, corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction, and rigorously tested performance means you're choosing friction stays that will continue functioning flawlessly for years to come – protecting your investment and enhancing your home's comfort, security, and value.