Summary: Learn how to fit a window stay and fastener, fix a stay to a casement window and install a mortise casement fastener.
Window stays and fasteners are also referred to as window furniture. The most popular materials are brass, coated alloy and chrome. The window stay is a metal arm with evenly spaced holes and is fixed to the opening section of a casement window. When the window has been opened to the required position it is secured over one of two pins fixed on the window frame. When the window is closed the stay slots onto both pins. The fastener is attached about halfway up the opening section on a casement window and holds the window shut.
Casement windows will either have a stay, a fastener or both. The fastener will incorporate a handle which is positioned about midway between the top and bottom of the casement. There are three types of mortise casement fastener:
If the casement lies flush with the frame when closed, it will require a hook fastener, but if the casement closes against the frame then you will either need a mortise or a wedge fastener.
Modern UPVC frames generally come with the closing and locking mechanism pre-fixed. New timber window frames may have the stays and fasteners already attached or you may have to fit them after the frame has been installed. To do this - or to replace an old stay - follow the instructions below.
Mark the position of the stay's fixing holes on to the casement frame.
Make sure the stay fits over the pins and the window is shut tight.
The arm of the fastener should come into contact with the timber visible through the opening of the mortise plate.
Create a rebate for the mortise plate and the fastener arm.
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