Window hinge repair in Exeter
Professional window hinge repair services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£60-£110
Typical Duration
1-2 hrs
Location
Exeter, Devon
Window hinges repaired or replaced - stiff, drooping, or broken hinges sorted so your windows open smoothly and stay where you put them. UPVC or timber windows, both doable.
When Windows Won't Behave
Window won't stay open? Drops down when you're trying to let air in? Needs two hands and a grunt to close?
Nine times out of ten, it's the hinges. They wear out, get stiff, sometimes break completely. Good news is they're replaceable - you don't need a whole new window.
💡 Pro tip: UPVC window hinges are a wear item, like brake pads on a car. They're designed to be replaced when they wear out, not to last forever. 10-15 years is typical lifespan with regular use.
Common Hinge Problems
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Window drops when open | Worn friction hinges | Replace hinges - 1-2 hrs, £60-£110 |
| Stiff to open/close | Hinges need lubrication or replacing | Service or replace - 1 hr, £60 |
| Window won't stay in position | Friction mechanism worn out | Replace hinges - 1-2 hrs, £60-£110 |
| Visible damage/bending | Accident damage or forced operation | Replace hinges - 1-2 hrs, £60-£110 |
Based on £60 minimum (first hour) + £50/hr after. Hinges usually £20-40 for the pair.
Types of Hinges I Replace
UPVC Windows:
- Top-hung friction stays (most common)
- Side-hung egress hinges (easy-clean windows)
- Restrictor hinges (child safety windows)
- Fire escape hinges (specific operation)
Timber Windows:
- Traditional butt hinges
- Modern friction stays
- Parliament hinges (for shutters/reveals)
Why Professional Replacement Matters
Right hinges - Wrong size or type = window won't operate properly
Proper fitting - Hinges need accurate positioning or window catches
Stuck screws - Old UPVC screws corrode and strip. I've got the tools to deal with it
Safety - Windows are heavy. Hinges fail mid-replacement = broken glass
Perfect For Your Project If...
✅ Window drops open - stays won't hold it in position
✅ Stiff operation - takes effort to open or close
✅ Visible wear - hinges look bent, damaged, or corroded
✅ Won't close properly - window doesn't sit square when closed
Why Choose Us for Window hinge repair in Exeter?
Windows opening and closing smoothly
Stays in position when open
No more dropping or sticking
Correct hinges for your window type
What to Expect
Step 1: Assess & Source Parts
I'll check the window type, measure the hinges, and identify what's needed. Common hinges I carry or can get same/next day. Specialist hinges might need ordering (2-3 days).
Step 2: Remove Old Hinges
This is the fiddly bit - old screws in UPVC can be stubborn. Sometimes they strip, sometimes you have to drill them out. Takes patience and the right tools.
Step 3: Fit New Hinges
New hinges positioned accurately, screwed in, operation tested thoroughly. Window should open smoothly and stay wherever you put it.
🔧 DIY Tips
Window hinge replacement is doable DIY if you're practical:
🔧 Tools you'll need
- Screwdrivers (Pozidriv No.2 usually)
- Possibly drill and screw extractor (for stuck screws)
- New hinges (exact match to old ones)
- Helper (windows are awkward to hold)
- WD-40 or UPVC lubricant
📐 Replacing UPVC friction stays
- Open window fully for access
- Support window weight (get helper to hold it)
- Remove screws from old hinges (start with hinge end, not window end)
- Carefully remove old hinge
- Position new hinge exactly where old one was
- Screw in place (not too tight, you can crack UPVC)
- Test operation before removing support
⚠️ Common DIY mistakes
- Not supporting window weight (it will drop and potentially crack)
- Buying wrong size hinges (measure carefully)
- Stripping screws by using wrong screwdriver
- Overtightening screws in UPVC (cracks the frame)
- Doing one hinge at a time (both are probably worn)
💡 Pro trick: When removing old screws, heat them gently with a heat gun first. Helps break corrosion and makes removal way easier. Don't overheat though - you'll melt the UPVC.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
🔧 Both sides usually: If one side's worn out, the other isn't far behind. Makes sense to do both hinges at once rather than have the same job twice.
Multiple windows? If several need doing, book them together. I'm already there with tools and probably have enough hinges. Better value than separate visits.
UPVC windows 15-20 years old? Hinges are probably due for replacement around now. Totally normal wear and tear - not a sign your windows are failing.
Timber windows? Older wooden windows often have hinges that just need cleaning and lubricating rather than full replacement. I'll know which once I've seen them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my window hinges need replacing?
If the window drops when open, won't stay in position, is stiff to operate, or has visible wear/damage on the hinges, they probably need replacing. Most UPVC hinges last 10-15 years before wearing out.
Can you get hinges for any window?
Most windows yes - UPVC hinges are usually generic sizes, though some branded windows need specific parts. Timber window hinges are widely available. I'll identify what you need and source the right parts.
Do both hinges need replacing or just the broken one?
If one's failed, the other is usually not far behind. I'd recommend doing both at once - they've had the same wear, and it's daft to pay twice for what's essentially the same job.
Will new hinges make my old window work like new?
Pretty much yes, as long as the frame itself is sound. Worn hinges are usually what makes windows stiff, droopy, or hard to operate. New hinges, everything works smoothly again.
How long does hinge replacement take?
Usually 1-2 hours per window. Taking the old hinges off is half the job - screws get corroded and stubborn. Fitting new ones is straightforward once the old ones are out.
Window hinge repair Also Available In:
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01392 964094Request Online QuoteOur Rates
Got multiple jobs?
Make the most of your first hour - I can often tackle several small tasks in one visit. List everything you need done when you call!
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