Window & sliding gate hardware By Antoh Decor Enterprises 3 min read
Key points
- Side-arms (friction stays) hold top-hung and casement windows open at any angle and close them firmly.
- Measure the opening sash: its height for top-hung windows, its width for side-hung (casement) windows.
- Longer and heavier sashes need longer stays; Antoh Decor stocks every size from 8″ to 24″.
- Fit stays in matching pairs and replace both sides at the same time.
Window side-arms, also called friction stays or window stays, are the sliding hinges on the sides of top-hung and casement windows. They let the window open, hold it at any angle with friction, and pull it tight when closed. We stock stainless side-arms in every size from 8″ to 24″.
Top-hung or side-hung?
- Top-hung windows open outwards from the bottom; the stays are fitted on the left and right sides of the sash.
- Side-hung (casement) windows open like a door; the stays are fitted on the top and bottom of the sash.
How to choose the size
- Measure the opening sash, not the whole frame: the height of the sash for top-hung windows, or the width for side-hung windows.
- Bigger sashes need longer stays to carry the weight and open far enough. Small toilet and kitchen vents usually take short stays; large living room sashes take long ones.
- Bring your measurements, or an old stay, to our shop and we will match the size. Sizes available: 8″, 10″, 12″, 14″, 16″, 18″, 20″, 22″ and 24″.
Fitting tips
- Always fit stays in pairs of the same size and model.
- Set the sash in the frame with even gaps before fixing; a misaligned stay makes the window bind.
- Use the right screws or rivets for steel or aluminium frames.
- If the window drifts open or closed, adjust the friction screw on the slider (where fitted).
When to replace
Replace stays when the window drops, rattles in the wind, will not stay open or will not close tightly. Replace both sides at once so they wear evenly.
Stainless or plain steel?
Stainless side-arms resist rust, which matters because windows face rain and condensation every day. They keep sliding smoothly for longer and do not stain the window frame. For bathrooms, kitchens and homes near the coast, stainless is the right choice.
Buying for a building project
On a new building, count the opening sashes on the window schedule and group them by size. Order a pair per sash, plus a few spare pairs for breakages during installation. We supply contractors and window fabricators in bulk.
Common mistakes
- Measuring the frame instead of the opening sash.
- Mixing two different brands or lengths on one window.
- Painting over the slider, which makes the window stiff.
- Screws too long, hitting glass or the other side of the profile.
Also for windows: window sliding locks and sliding window rollers. Ask for a price on the window side-arms page.
Featured in this guide
Window & Sliding Gate Hardware
Window Side-Arms (8″ – 24″)
Stainless window side-arms (friction stays) from 8″ to 24″ for top-hung and casement windows in steel and aluminium frames.
8″10″12″
Price on request · wholesale & retail
Frequently asked questions
What is a window side-arm?
A friction stay: the sliding hinge on the sides of a top-hung or casement window that holds it open at any angle.
What size side-arm do I need?
Measure the opening sash, height for top-hung or width for side-hung, and match it to a stay from 8 to 24 inches. Bring the old stay and we will match it.
Are friction stays and window stays the same thing?
Yes, side-arms, friction stays and window stays are names for the same fitting.
Should I replace both stays?
Yes, replace both sides at the same time with the same size and model.
