Windows Whistling Or Blowing Open In The Wind

What's happening?

Wind noise at a window comes from air finding its way through a gap or setting something moving. Everest says sound can travel through a trickle vent, and through gaps where the seals in double glazing have degraded, and that the frame construction and the installation matter as much as the glass. A loose opening sash is another source: Everest says uPVC windows can be too loose, so they blow open in the wind or a breeze or will not stay open, and the friction stay on the hinge is the part that sets how stiff the window is. A simple walk round on a windy day, listening at each window and at its vent, finds which window and which part is responsible.

What usually causes it?

• A trickle vent that lets sound and air through
• Seals around the sash or glass that have degraded, leaving gaps
• A friction stay that is too loose, so the sash blows open or rattles
• A gap between frame and wall left by poor installation
• A sash that is out of adjustment and does not close evenly

Is it dangerous?

No. A sash that blows open is a nuisance and a risk to the glass if it slams, so keep it closed and locked in strong wind.

Can I fix it myself?

Listen at each window on a windy day to find which one and which part. For a sash that is too loose or blows open, Everest says the friction stay screw on the hinge can be turned in small amounts to make the window stiffer, with the same adjustment on the opposite hinge, and reversed if it becomes too stiff. Close the trickle vent to see if the noise stops. Do not seal around the frame until you know where the noise comes from.

When should you call a window fitter?

Call a window fitter if the noise continues after the friction stay is adjusted and the vent closed, if you can feel a draught at the seals or the frame, or if the sash does not close evenly. Ask them to check the seals, the hinges and the gap to the wall.

What will the window fitter actually do?

• Find which window, vent or gap the noise comes from
• Adjust the friction stays and hinges so the sash closes evenly
• Replace degraded seals or gaskets
• Check and seal the gap between frame and wall
• Replace a window where the frame or fit is the cause

Who fixes this

• Window repair and adjustment
• Double glazing replacement

Questions people ask

Sources & References

1. Everest: how to soundproof windows
2. Everest: how to fix stiff or loose uPVC window hinges