Some of these windows are jamming on one side. Can anyone tell me if these window stays can be adjusted to tilt slightly toward the other side?
Hello @toccy30
Thank you for sharing your question about your window stay. From your photo, these appear to be older-style casement window friction stays. In many cases these types of stays have very limited adjustment compared to newer adjustable hinges, so unfortunately there usually isn’t a simple screw adjustment that will tilt the sash significantly toward the other side. However, there are still a few things worth checking before assuming the hardware needs replacing.
The first thing I would suggest is to inspect whether the window is actually sagging slightly over time. Open the window halfway and look carefully at the gaps around the frame. If one side is tighter at the top and wider at the bottom, the sash may have dropped a little due to wear in the stay arm, loose screws, or slight timber movement. Sometimes even tightening all the mounting screws on both the top and bottom stays can improve alignment surprisingly well. It’s also worth checking whether any screws are stripped or no longer biting properly into the timber.
Another very common cause of jamming is dirt, oxidisation and dried lubricant inside the sliding track section of the stay. These older friction stays can become stiff and start pulling the window unevenly. A good clean followed by a silicone-based lubricant can make a big difference. Avoid heavy grease or oil that attracts dust. A silicone spray lubricant from Bunnings is usually the safest option for window hardware and helps the arms slide more freely without becoming sticky over time. Sometimes simply lubricating both the top and bottom stays and operating the window repeatedly will bring the sash back into a more natural alignment.
If the window still jams after cleaning and tightening, check whether the timber itself has swollen slightly. Timber windows can move seasonally from moisture and heat, especially on exposed sides of the home. You may notice shiny rub marks or worn paint where the sash is contacting the frame. In that case, the problem may not be the stay at all. Sometimes a very light sanding or planing of the rubbing edge is needed, although it’s best to confirm the hardware is functioning correctly first before removing any timber.
The black friction shoe visible in your photo may also be worn. If that component is loose or uneven, the window can skew slightly during closing. In older hardware, replacement is often easier and more effective than trying to force an adjustment that the mechanism was never designed to provide. Modern friction stays are available through Bunnings, but you'll need to make sure that it is compatible with the set that you have.
A silicone lubricant spray would be a good starting point before thinking about replacing anything. Products like https://www.bunnings.com.au/wd-40-300g-specialist-high-performance-silicone_p6100407 are commonly used on window tracks and stays because they leave a dry lubricating film instead of an oily residue.
If replacement does become necessary, something like the https://www.bunnings.com.au/whitco-300mm-steel-friction-window-stay-set_p4111437 or the Whitco 400mm Galvanised Steel Standard Friction Window Stay (special order) may suit depending on your window size and configuration. These are designed specifically for casement and awning windows.
One extra tip is to compare the problem window against one that operates smoothly. Open both halfway and look closely at the angle of the stays, screw positions and sash gaps. Often the difference becomes obvious once you have a working example beside it. Also make sure the house hasn’t experienced any frame movement around that opening, as even a small amount of settlement can cause timber windows to bind on one side.
Overall, I’d start with cleaning, lubricating, tightening all screws and checking for timber rubbing before replacing the stays. There’s a good chance the issue is simply wear and friction rather than a major fault.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
