Mounting window actuators on timber, aluminium, PVC and steel windows

Updated: 08.11.2026

In brief: Whether timber, aluminium, PVC or steel – a chain actuator is fixed to the frame with a bracket and to the sash with a sash bracket. What matters is that the screws hold in the load-bearing part of the profile. The basic rules are in the guide Installing a window actuator correctly; this page covers the differences by material.

Timber windows

Timber holds screws well. Use sufficiently long wood screws and pre-drill so that the wood does not split. With soft wood or old windows, choose a wider bracket with more screws.

Aluminium windows

With aluminium the screws sit in the thin profile wall. Blind rivet nuts or threaded inserts are common so that the connection does not tear out. With thermally broken profiles, do not screw through the insulation zone.

PVC windows

PVC profiles usually contain a steel reinforcement. The screws should hit this reinforcement, otherwise they loosen over time. The position of the reinforcement is shown in the window manufacturer’s profile section.

Steel windows

Steel profiles are narrow and strong. They are fixed with machine screws in pre-drilled holes or with threaded inserts. For old steel windows, we check from photos whether there is space for actuator and bracket.

For all materials

• Actuator on the outer frameside opposite the hinge.
• Mounting position and space checked before ordering.
• Plan two actuators from a sash width of about 1.5 m.
• safety stay on bottom-hung and top-hung sashes.

Not sure which bracket fits? Send photos of the profile via the Project enquiry.

Frequently asked questions

Can I screw a chain actuator onto an aluminium window?

Yes, with blind rivet nuts or threaded inserts in the profile wall. Ordinary sheet-metal screws do not hold well in aluminium in the long term.

Does an actuator hold on a PVC window?

Yes, if the screws hit the steel reinforcement in the profile. Screwed only into the PVC, the fixing can loosen.