Friction Stays & Hinges

Replacement uPVC Window Hinges & Friction Stays

Restore smooth opening, correct alignment and suitable opening control with replacement window friction stays. Choose from standard, restricted, slimline, egress and egress easy-clean designs for compatible uPVC windows.

Measure the hinge length, track width and stack height, and check whether the window is side hung or top hung. Replace both hinges together unless the product instructions specifically state otherwise.

Window Hinge Measuring & Buying Guide

Choose the Correct Friction-Stay Type

Standard window hinges Restricted window hinges Slimline window hinges Egress window hinges Egress easy-clean hinges

Standard hinges provide ordinary opening for compatible windows. Restricted hinges limit the initial opening. Egress hinges are designed to create a wider clear opening when correctly selected and installed. Easy-clean designs also allow the sash to move for improved access to the outer glass.

How to Measure Window Friction Stays

  • Hinge length: Measure the metal track from end to end.
  • Track width: Measure across the fixed track. Most products in this range use an 18mm track, while slimline applications can use 15mm.
  • Stack height: Measure the closed height of the hinge assembly. Common applications include 13mm and 17mm.
  • Window orientation: Check whether the sash is side hung or top hung.
  • Opening function: Identify whether you require standard, restricted, egress or easy-clean operation.

13mm and 17mm Stack Heights

Some retrofit friction stays can suit more than one stack height by using supplied packers. Only use packers specified for that hinge. Do not assume every 13mm product can be converted to 17mm.

Materials and Brands

The category includes stainless-steel and ferritic-steel friction stays from Cotswold Architectural Products, Securistyle, Mila, Yale, Versa, DGS and Nico. Check the individual specification for material, load, sash-size and orientation requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should window hinges be replaced as a pair?

Yes, in most cases. Replacing both sides helps maintain matching geometry, friction and load support.

What is the difference between hinge length and stack height?

Hinge length is the end-to-end track measurement. Stack height is the height of the closed hinge assembly between the sash and frame.

Can I replace a standard hinge with an egress hinge?

Possibly, but the sash size, weight, available space and required opening must suit the replacement. Compare the full product specification.

Are all egress hinges easy-clean?

No. Some provide egress opening only, while designated easy-clean models also allow the sash to slide for cleaning access.

Need help matching a window hinge? Use our part-identification form to send photographs of the complete hinge and its markings together with the length, track width and stack height.