Window fittings or new windows.

crazybass_uk

Hi, looking for some advice I was looking to maybe get new windows but the current ones which are quite old don’t have any condensation etc inside them. 

They are a bit breezy when closed and windows closed but the problem is the fittings are all rusty that open and close the window. 

Can you buy replacement fittings I can’t seem to find them anywhere 

regards

born_again

What type of windows do you have now?

bluelad1927

I had all the hinges replaced on our UPVC windows. I think they cost £50 each fitted but that was reduced given the quantity. It made a huge difference to sealing the windows eliminating any breeze which was evident before 

ic

Assuming you're talking about UPVC double glazing, then you probably need to replace the friction hinges.  Its normal for the point at the end of the hinge to wear out (they were often nylon parts) meaning the opening sash doesn't "dock" properly, and stops pulling tight against the frame on the hinge side opposite the locking mechanism.  The rubber seals may also be old enough to be drying up and not so flexible.  Replacements are readily available, and generally easy to replace.  Note if removing opening sashes, they can be surprisingly heavy!

Likewise, if the problem is with the latches themselves, those too are generally available - its just a lot of searching to find a match.  If replacing part of the locking mechanism inside the frame, it can be a little more involved.  Been there done that, but got an old window sealing properly ahead of winter, and ultimately replacement a year later.

Albermarle

We had various problems with different PVC double glazed windows and doors. Our local window installer offer a repair service. A guy came round, fixed a couple of things with no charge and replaced a couple of handles/springs/locks . Cost about £100.

FrankFalcon

If you’re not familiar changing friction hinges I wouldn’t try on a downstairs window first. There are loads of different hinges with some of them that look easy to fit but can be a pain because they have to be position exactly or they won’t work properly. Also, you should always change them as a pair. The guys who do this regularly will have had loads of experience with loads of different hinges (Mila, DGS etc) and will have learned the hard way. I know this is a site for saving money but I would honestly recommend using one of these window guys. The user about (named ic) is correct in what he says and is clearly competent in doing this but I would say if you don’t know what you’re doing you could be wasting all day, messing around, trying yourself when the guys who did it for a living would have it done in a flash. Also, if you make a mistake and struggle with a downstairs window you then have a security issue. 

Adamhoward20

If the windows are breezy when closed, could this not be a sealing issue too? Replacing the hinges will correctly align the windows, but if your existing seals are damaged or over compressed in any way, you still may experience the draft.

We replaced the seals on our bedroom windows last year which may a huge difference in our 1970s house. Seals direct have a large selection of glazing seals (https://www.sealsdirect.co.uk/shop/category/glazing-door-seals-561). They’re pretty easy to replace, and not ridiculously expensive. If you’re going to the effort of changing the hinges, it may be worth considering this too.

FreeBear

Depending on how old the windows are, it may not be possible to buy new hinges anywhere.

I had aluminium framed DG windows here that had been installed back in the 1970s. The little bits of plastic on the ends of the hinges started to break which meant the windows no longer pulled in tight against the seals. Hunting around for new hinges proved to be thankless, and all I could find were used. This was just one more reason to replace the windows throughout the house - Darned expensive way to replace the hinges, but the new windows are so much better at keeping the heat in.