This may be a few things, from stiff or broken hinges, to the hinges dropping or a structural issue.
First things first. Please take care to avoid any risk of falling from an open window.
- If the window is almost closed, check there is no debris in the frame preventing the window closing. Make sure the handle is in the fully opened position before closing and locking your window.
- If you cannot open your window, double-check that the window is not locked with the key. We’ve all done it. Make sure there is no obstruction outside preventing the window from opening.
- Does the window have a restricted hinge? These are designed to only open to about 10º to prevent accidents. To open the window fully, press the button on the slider (circled in image) to disengage the restrictor. You will be required to do this on both sides of a top hinged window and just the bottom one on a side hinged window.
My window won’t stay open at the position I open it to
It is possible that the adjuster screw on the hinge is too loose. This can be tightened with a flat head screwdriver to increase the resistance between the slider and the hinge track.
If your window doesn’t stay in position, you can adjust the friction. To increase the friction, turn the adjuster screw clockwise on the stay. To decrease the friction, turn the adjuster screw anti-clockwise on the stay.
How to Fix a Stiff or Loose Window Hinge
If you’re having trouble opening or closing a window because it’s stiff, or if it’s loose and moves in the wind, you can easily fix it.
If your window is difficult to open and close, check if there’s any debris on the metal runners. See how to clean them here for smooth movement. Clean the window first. If it’s still stiff, use a 3-in-one® Multi-Purpose Oil. Lubricate all circular pivot points at the top and bottom. Do not use a solvent-based spray like WD40 because it can damage your window.
If that doesn’t solve the problem, try loosening the screws on the hinge. You’ll need to fully open the window to access the screws. Windows with restricted hinges need a button pressing to open wide. This allows visibility of the screws. You don’t need to turn the screws much, a small movement should be enough.
If your window hinges are loose and the wind can open it, follow the same advice but tighten the screws. You don’t need to turn the screws a lot for it to affect the hinge.
My Window Hinge Needs Repairing
If your windows are hard to open or close, the problem is probably the hinges. This could happen if the window was forced open, if the hinge dropped and the window catches on the frame, or if there was a problem with the hinge from the beginning.
If the hinge on your window is broken and you bought it from us, we will replace it under your guarantee. This is an easy fix that won’t take much time. Simply call us or request a service visit on our website.