Choosing Upvc Window Replacement Hinges

The process of selecting and fitting upvc window hinges for replacement isn't as difficult as you think. Make sure the hinges' arrows face in the correct direction, and then measure the thickness of the hinge arms on the frame opening (13mm or17mm).

There are several types of hinges to choose from, each with unique features. This article will discuss the most common kinds of uPVC window hinges and the advantages they offer.

Egress/Easy Clean Hinge

These windows are an excellent choice for replacing or upgrading your fire escape window as they open to a full 90 degree angle. They can be removed to an easy-clean position that allows you to see the outside of windows without the need to climb ladders or lean at dangerous angles.

These egress hinges are heavy-duty and are made by Yale which is among the most well-known and reliable home security brands on the market today. These hinges are compatible with any type of uPVC side hung window. They can be moved into the clean position by pressing an unassuming button, and then sliding the window sash over to one side. After closing, the sash will automatically reset to its initial position.

They are available in both 13mm and 17mm stack heights. Use our Egress Selection Guide to help you choose the right product for your window.

These hinges are compatible with standard side-hung frames made of uPVC, or aluminium. The friction hinges for timber windows screw is used to adjust the resistance. This makes opening the window easier and reduces the chances of accidental closing during severe winds. They have been tested for over 30000 cycles and are in compliance with British Standards approved BS EN 130126-6:2008 and BBA/Secured by Design.

The Nico Egress Easy Clean friction hinge is easy to use and has no buttons or catches. It offers a convenient and safe solution to emergency exit and cleaning. Firstly, open the window to the egress (full opening) position, then press the hinge retaining clip that is located on the inner side of the bottom corner. This will open both the bottom and top catches allowing you move the sash into the easy-cleaning position. Close the window when you have the sash in an easy-cleaning position. This will set the hinges back to their exit positions.

Fire-Escape Hinge

Fire Escape Hinges commonly referred to as "Easy Clean" hinges are used to replace side opening windows for egress (fire safety) reasons. These types of hinges are more spacious and more efficient than conventional hinges to provide an open space to escape in the case of a fire. This type of hinge is legal in any living space with a window according to building regulations.

They feature a unique friction stay that opens the window to an angle of 90 degrees. It allows the opening sash to slide across when open to allow easy cleaning of the outside of the glass, without having to use ladders. The hinges are simple to operate and don't have complicated buttons or catch mechanisms. They can be operated from inside of the house with an easy, safe lever.

The hinges are made in the UK by Cotswold and come complete with a child safety limiter for day to day use that can be overridden with a hidden button giving you peace of thought that your children will not accidentally open the hinged door repairs too far. They are available in 13mm and 17mm stack heights.

Find the length of the existing side-hung window hinge, which is fixed to the frame. (See the article on measuring upvc window hinges). Then select the correct size hinge from the choices below.

It is important to note that the measurement is taken from the part that is fixed to the frame, not the sash. The real hinge length may be shorter or larger based on the manufacture of your old windows. Also, when choosing the size of your hinge, most windows made of upvc will have a 13mm stack height. However, should your old frame have 17mm then choose the option to use this. You can also install the 4mm packer to make up the difference. All hinges come in two different directions (1 left and one right). Screws aren't included with the hinges. They can be purchased separately if required. We suggest using our upvc window hinge repair screws. They are specially designed to improve the performance of your hinges, allowing them to operate smoothly for a longer time. They come with a lower friction design and a heightened weather seal with a nylon reducer cap.

Restricted Hinge

There are instances windows need to completely open, and this can be a problem with hinges that are standard. These restricted child safety friction double glazed hinges help to overcome this problem and provide a solution when ventilation is required but access for cleaning or escape in case of fire is not feasible. They function by limiting the amount of sash that can open, and allow for the override of this restriction with the push of a button. They are available in 13mm and 17mm stack heights. They are suitable for both side and top hung windows.

The Nico Restricted Egress Friction hinge combines the characteristics of a standard restrictor as well as an escape hinge to provide an effective and simple way to comply with building regulations. It is suitable for side-hung and top opening uPVC windows and comes in 17mm and 13mm stack heights. It is available in a pair with one hinge being the one that is restricted for egress, and the other hinge being unrestricted. This permits one hinge to be installed at the bottom and the other hinge is placed at the top.

These uPVC restricting hinges have been tested to BS6375 Part 2 and are designed to be used on windows that cannot be opened fully such as a small children's bedroom. The mechanism limits the extent to which the sash is able to open to a safety position of 100mm and re-engages when the window is closed.

Like the other types of uPVC friction hinges they can be installed on any type of window and are suitable for difficult to access windows above the ground level three-storey flats, or those that would normally require a ladder to reach them. They can be combined by our security features like hinge guards, protection plates for hinges or dog bolts for PAS 24 performance.

When replacing a hinge on a window, it is essential to measure the length of the existing hinge to ensure that you get replacements that are comparable in size. The most efficient method to do this is to look at the hinge in the image gallery and determining the location you would like it to be positioned. Top hung hinges can be restricted on both sides and the side-hung hinges are only restricted only on one side.

Standard Hinge

A standard hinge is made of metal-to-metal contact and no extra parts to decrease friction. It comes in a variety of finishes and also comes with a fire rating. To quickly determine the radius of hinges, lay it out flat and align a quarter and dime in two corners. If the quarter fits better then the corner should be turned to 5/8 inches.

The right hinge can be the difference between making or breaking your pvc door hinges's appearance. Achieving the same style and finish of your hinges with your composite door hinge replacement will give it an attractive and cohesive look.