September 9, 2025

Buy the Right Window Stay for Your Home: Friction vs. Restrictor Explained

When you’re building, renovating, or upgrading your home in New Zealand, window hardware is often one of those details that goes unnoticed, until it doesn’t work as it should. Window stays may seem like a small piece of hardware, but they directly impact your home’s safety, airflow, and compliance with NZ building codes. Choosing between friction stays and restrictor stays is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your windows.

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between these two types of stays, explain where to buy them in New Zealand, and share why it pays to choose certified products from trusted suppliers like Doric NZ.

What Are Window Stays and Why Do They Matter?

Window stays are fittings that control how far a window can open, holding it securely in place. They provide balance between ventilation, usability, and safety. In New Zealand homes, where coastal climates and family safety are top considerations, choosing the right stay is critical.

Friction Stays: Flexible Ventilation and Ease of Use

Friction stays are the most common type of window stay. They are designed with built-in friction, which means the window can be held open at different angles without the need for additional catches.

Key Benefits of Friction Stays:

• Smooth, adjustable airflow.
• Ideal for aluminium windows and modern home designs.
• Strong enough to support larger sashes.
• Sleek design that suits contemporary architecture.

Best For:

• Living areas and bedrooms where ventilation is a priority.
• Homeowners who want ease of use without fiddly catches.

 

Restrictor Stays: Prioritising Safety Without Losing Airflow

Restrictor stays are designed to limit how far a window can open. They are commonly used in multi-storey homes, apartments, and family homes to prevent accidental falls.

Key Benefits of Restrictor Stays:

• Prevents windows from opening too wide.
• Enhances child safety and complies with building code requirements.
• Still allows controlled airflow while maintaining security.

Best For:

• Upper-level windows.
• Family homes with young children.
• Buildings where safety regulations require restricted openings.

Friction vs. Restrictor: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between friction and restrictor stays comes down to your priorities:

• Safety first? Choose restrictor stays.
• Ventilation and convenience? Choose friction stays.
• Both? In some cases, you may need a combination of both across different rooms or floors of the home.

Think about the function of each space in your house. A child’s bedroom on the second storey will likely require restrictor stays, while a ground-floor living room may benefit from friction stays that maximise airflow.

Where to Buy Window Stays in New Zealand

Once you’ve decided which stay suits your needs, the next step is finding a reliable supplier.

• Direct from Doric NZ – Genuine, certified hardware with expert support.
• Specialist building merchants – Ideal for builders who need stock quickly.
• Local hardware stores – Convenient for smaller renovations (check certifications).
• Architectural hardware showrooms – Perfect for renovators and architects seeking contemporary designs.

Why Quality and Certification Matter

Not all window stays are created equal. In New Zealand, where salty air and variable weather can shorten the lifespan of poor-quality hardware, durability is essential. Always look for:

• NZS compliance and certifications to meet building codes.
• Durable finishes like stainless steel or treated aluminium.
• Trusted brands such as Doric that offer warranties and after-sales support.

Shop the Best Window Stays for Modern NZ Homes

Modern homes call for hardware that is both functional and stylish. Doric’s window stays are designed with slim, contemporary profiles that blend seamlessly into today’s architecture, making them a favourite among builders, architects, and renovators.

• Sleek design for a minimalist finish.
• Durability that withstands NZ conditions.
• Architect-friendly solutions that complement high-end builds.

When it comes to choosing window stays, the question isn’t just where to buy,  it’s which type will best serve your home.

• Friction stays give you freedom and flexibility.
• Restrictor stays give you peace of mind and safety.

For many Kiwi homeowners, the right answer is a mix of both. By purchasing through trusted suppliers like Doric NZ, you can be sure your hardware meets all requirements for safety, compliance, and design.

FAQs

Q: What is the main difference between friction and restrictor window stays?

A: Friction stays allow smooth, adjustable ventilation, while restrictor stays limit opening distances for safety, particularly in upper-level or family homes.

Q: Do all window stays meet NZ building codes?

A: No. Only certified products like Doric stays are tested to meet NZ standards.

Q: Where is the best place to buy window stays in NZ?

A: Directly from Doric NZ or authorised merchants and showrooms to ensure genuine, certified products.

Q: Which type of stay is best for airflow?

A: Friction stays are designed for flexible, adjustable airflow.

Q: Which type of stay is safest for children?

A: Restrictor stays are recommended to reduce fall risks in multi-storey homes.