What is a casement stay?
A casement stay, also called a window stay, is the hardware that opens an outward-opening window and holds it in a chosen position. It links the moving sash to the fixed frame, stops the window slamming in the wind, and sets how far the casement can swing open. It works alongside the fastener or handle that pulls the window shut.
Types of casement stay
| Type | How it works | Point to watch |
|---|---|---|
| Peg stay (pierced arm) | Perforated bar that drops over one or two pins on the cill | Traditional and cheap, but the bar projects into the room when open |
| Swing-away stay | Arm that folds sideways along the frame | Better for security and for insect screens, often a limited opening angle |
| Telescopic stay | Sliding sections locked at any point | Infinitely adjustable, can stiffen up over time |
| Remote-operated stay | Powered opener worked from a distance | For unreachable windows in a conservatory or over a stairwell, more expensive and dependent on power |
Choosing a replacement
- Measure the fixing centres. Match the spacing of the existing screw holes in sash and frame and you can usually fit a new stay without redrilling.
- Pick the right material. Outside, the hardware takes the full weather: stainless steel or a properly coated finish lasts longest, especially near the coast.
- Check handing. Many stays are made left-hand, right-hand or reversible.
- Decide the opening width. Wide open for ventilation, or deliberately restricted, for example where children can reach the window.
- Consider security. Ground-floor and easily reached windows benefit from a lockable stay or a restrictor, so the casement cannot simply be pushed open from outside.
Stays and insect screens
A peg stay that projects inwards gets in the way of a fitted insect screen or blind. Where both are wanted, a swing-away stay or a stay that stays entirely outside the sash opening is the usual answer.
Related terms
- Casement window
- Window fastener
- Friction hinge
- Sash
- Window frame
- Insect screen
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