It might be time to change the hinge on your aluminium windows when the black or grey friction block on the window breaks in two. A few other signs signaling that you should change the hinges on your aluminium window are when you can feel a draught along or down the hinge side of the window or the window does not pull in at the top or down the side of the window when it is closed.
First thing to note when you want to change the hinges on your aluminium window is that you must have the correct pair and should always be changed as a pair. Next up is determining which window hinge you need. The first dimension you should consider is its length. The come in increments of 2”, between 8” and 24”. The largest size sash, which is the part of the window that moves, is the best fit. The second dimension to consider is the depth when you look at the hinge from the side.
If this is your first time replacing hinges, it is advised that you have an assistant with you and have all your tools ready. The first step is unscrewing the screws and removing the rivets. If the heads are rusted when you are unscrewing the screws, wiggle a small drill in the head of the screw and blow out any debris.
Step two is marking. Assuming that you have the sash with the hinges still attached on the floor, close the hinge and mark where the hinge ends in relation to the edge of the frame. Step three is to remove the hinges. Do a quick brush and wipe the sash to remove any dirt before re-fitting any hinges. Drilling the holes will be your fourth step. The next step is to fit the sash. Make sure you position the hinge as close as possible to the position of the old one.
Finally, you can refit it back to the frame. Lift the sash into place and screw the first fixings into the prepared holes. If the window closes smoothly, you have completed the process. If it doesn’t, just loosen, adjust and re-tighten the hinges. You can increase the life of the new hinges by using silicone spray or WD40 every few months.