Loose screws

I'd try threadlocking compound first.

Jim K

For PVCu frames, you can get "repair screws" for that situation, a bit of a thicker shank and different pitch. No idea if those would suit aluminium, or if not, whether specific repair screws for aluminium frames are available ...

JimK put finger to keyboard:

I don't think thread locking compound will work - it's more for stopping screws rotating loose. It would probably be fine, except for the fact it's a window handle that is used daily, so the screws have to be able to withstand the forces applied when the window is opened and shut. I think thread lock compound would soon fail under these conditions.

have you ever used any?

Jim K

If a self tapping thread has failed, the only real option is larger screws. Perhaps with some thread locker to help prevent it happening again.

If it's not possible to fit larger screws and there's room for them, you could try U nuts - they fit over the ally sheet, and have a thread on one side for a self tapper. Come in various sizes.

I would look to see whether it is possible to tap the holes for a machine thread screw. They are often a finer thread than self-tappers, which may give better holding power in a relatively thin material.

Next size self tappers and don't enlarge the hole - it's probably already "right".

You might google for Window Repair Screw

It's a common problem and a number of screws are available with an oversized thread but otherwise same head size and length.

Not clear from description whether frames are solid (more likely to be Critall galvanized steel) or box section (extruded Al). For box section one option might be rivnuts. My usual "fix" for oversized holes if tapping out is not an option is to glue in a length of studding with JB Weld or Araldite, and use a nyloc nut. Needs sufficient depth so may not be an option here.

Also make sure that the handle and mechanism is lubricated and operating as easily as possible to minimise the amount of yanking that has to be done.

The frames are probably box section, with a fit of space behind the part to which the handle attaches. [You can test this by removing the screw and poking a thin rod (e.g. shank of 2mm drill) into the hole.] If there

Erm, can i ask why that last bit is relevant? if the screws fail then the kids can't open the window to fall out of, or is it more along the lines of a daily wail thing.... the window won't open, oh my god, you can't have that, think of the chiiiiildren :)

JimK put finger to keyboard:

I've used the Loctite blue threadlock some time in the past, but for stopping a screw shaking loose (car engine), not for anything where force was going to be applied.

I assumed it was because you can't rely upon children to follow instructions on how to open the window carefully.

Gazz put finger to keyboard:

Heh, nothing like that! Just saying that advice to open and close the window gently (when repaired) would be somewhat optimistic.

Scion put finger to keyboard:

Oh BTW Jim I appreciate your suggestion...just not sure it's the best solution, in these particular circumstances.

I assumed the children were likely to fall out because it wouldn't stay closed.

That is called learning by experience :-)

That's what a thread locker is for. Not to repair stripped threads.

Bookmarked!