Adjust uPVC window hinges so the window closes properly
Adjust uPVC window hinges and keeps so a sticking or draughty window closes and locks properly again.
WH-01Work out what's actually wrongOpen and close the window slowly and watch where it catches. A window that drags along the bottom has usually dropped on its hinges. One that won't pull fully shut, or lets in draughts on one side, usually needs the keeps (the metal catches the handle locks into) adjusted rather than the hinges. Check both top and bottom hinges on the hinge side, and the handle side too.
WH-02Get the right tools togetherMost uPVC window hinges take a 4mm Allen key (hex key), though some older or European-style hinges use 3mm or 5mm. A basic Allen key set covers all common sizes. You'll also want a soft cloth and some spray lubricant.
WH-03Clean and lubricate the hinges firstWipe old grease and grit off the visible hinge parts and the friction stay (the arm that lets the window open). Spray a light coat of lubricant into the hinge pivots and along the stay. This alone fixes a lot of stiff or sticky windows, so do it before you start turning anything.
WH-04Adjust the top hinge for vertical liftOn tilt-and-turn and most casement windows, the top hinge has a small Allen key screw (often hidden under a cap you can flip open) that lifts or drops the top corner of the sash. Turning it one way raises that corner, the other way lowers it. Make small quarter-turns and re-test the window each time — it doesn't take much movement to fix a drag.
WH-05Adjust the bottom hinge to level the sashThe bottom hinge usually has a similar adjuster for vertical lift, and often a second one for side-to-side movement. If the window drags on the bottom corner, lift that side slightly with the bottom hinge screw, matching what you did at the top so the sash sits level in the frame.
WH-06Adjust sideways position if it rubs on one edgeIf the sash rubs against the frame on the hinge side or the handle side, look for a lateral adjustment screw on the hinge (turning it moves the whole sash left or right by a couple of millimetres). Adjust in small steps and check the gap around the whole window is even before moving on.
WH-07Adjust the compression if it's draughty or won't lock shutMany uPVC hinges have an in-and-out adjuster that changes how hard the sash presses against the seal. Turning it clockwise usually pulls the sash in tighter against the frame, closing gaps and fixing draughts. Don't overtighten — the window should close firmly but the handle should still turn without forcing.
WH-08Check and adjust the keeps if it still won't lock properlyIf the handle is hard to turn or the window doesn't pull fully shut, the keeps (the strike plates on the frame that the locking pins engage with) may be misaligned. Loosen the keep's fixing screws slightly, let it settle into position as you close and lock the window, then retighten. A keep with a worn or bent pin should be replaced rather than adjusted.
WH-09Test fully and tidy upOpen and close the window several times, checking it moves smoothly, closes flush, and locks without forcing the handle. Wipe off any excess lubricant so it doesn't attract dust, and put your Allen keys somewhere you'll find them again — you'll likely need to nudge the adjustment again after a few weeks of use.
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