Handles & Hinges • AI Guides

How to Measure Your Window Hinges (Friction Stays)

Handles & Hinges UPVC Maintenance Ltd is a UK specialist in replacement parts for UPVC windows and doors. Our team knows the exact measurements and specifications for everything from standard friction stays to egress and restricted hinges — so you get the right pair first time.

Correct measurements fix most issues (draughts, scraping, poor close). Work through the steps below and note each size.

⚠️ Safety tip: If you remove a hinge to measure, support the sash. Keep fingers clear of pinch points.

Step-by-step

  1. Confirm hinge type & window handing
    - Side-hung: handle on the side; sash pivots left/right.
    - Top-hung: handle at the bottom; sash pivots upward.
    Note if you have egress (fire-escape/easy-clean) or restricted hinges.
  2. Measure the hinge length
    Measure the visible metal track end-to-end (typical sizes include 8", 10", 12", 13", 16", 20", 24"). If space allows, choosing the next size up can improve support/weight distribution.
  3. Measure the stack height (thickness)
    This is the overall hinge thickness when closed — commonly 13 mm or 17 mm. Match what you have for correct closing pressure.
  4. Measure the track width
    Most UPVC friction stays use either 18 mm track width (very common) or 15 mm. Check yours with a ruler.
  5. Note hand/pairing and features
    Side-hung stays are usually supplied as a left/right pair; top-hung uses two of the same. Record extras such as restrictors or easy-clean releases.

Quick reference

What to measure Typical values Notes
Hinge length 8", 10", 12", 13", 16", 20", 24" End-to-end metal track
Stack height 13 mm, 17 mm Match existing for correct closing
Track width 18 mm (very common), 15 mm Measure the rail the screws go through
Type Standard / Egress / Restricted Look for extra arms/release tabs
Window Side-hung / Top-hung Side-hung supplied as a handed pair
Shop Window Hinges Window Mechanism Measuring Guide

FAQ

Do I need 13 mm or 17 mm? Match the hinge you’ve got. The wrong stack height can cause draughts or tight closing.

Will my screw holes line up? Not always. On UPVC frames it’s normal to re-spot a couple of fixings with self-tapping screws.

Do hinges come as a pair? Side-hung sets are a left/right pair. Top-hung typically uses two identical stays.