How To Release Jammed UPVC Window?

macman

I have a UPVC double glazed bedroom window that has just today jammed shut-no problems with it before this.
The top half should open (hinged at the top). I can turn the key and operate the central handle, but only the bolt at the bottom left hand corner retracts-the one at the bottom right hand corner seems to have failed, as that corner of the window will not release.
Is there any way of releasing this other than using brute force? Unfortunately access from the outside would be quite tricky, due to a rear extension below.
The local d/g firms around here don't seem too interested in doing small repairs.

victor2

Can you remove the handle and get at the mechanism from there to pull the lever in towards the handle? I would guess that's where it's broken. I have a similar sounding window and the locking bars just slide across the bottom of the frame into the locking plate on the main frame. If you have another window the same, you could perhaps inspect that to see how it operates.

macman

Yes, I have several similar ones. Unfortunately the access hole revealed by removing the handle is tiny, just the width of the handle spindle, and nothing can be seen of the actual mechanism from there. I can probably lever it open, but that will cause severe damage to the internal frame.
Getting to it from outside will probably require scaffold tower access or some rather dodgy ladder balancing.

capeverde

Really difficult one, is the locking espagnalette (circular cams) or shootbolt type that actually goes into the frame. Removing the handle wont help as all you will see is the spindle hole. Basically, inside there are two bars with serated edges. When you turn the handle they move in opposing directions. This is actually sealed inside the frame on the opening vent. To remove it you need to access it once the window is open. All you can actually do in this circumstance is to throw the handle so the one side works and try and gemmy it that way. This may or may not work, depending on how heavy handed you are. Ultimately might be an insurance claim. Ive been in the business many years and there isnt really a way around this.

macman

Thanks, I've dismantled the locking mechanism on another window to see what's what. It's an espagnolette type, the shootbolt engages with 2 metal keeps on the bottom corners of the surround. It's this type (Aubi):
https://www.upvc-hardware.co.uk/locks-gearing-163/espagnolette-upvc-window-locks-186/aubi-saracen-gearbox-extensions-deadbolt-381.html
The extensions from the central gearbox are screwed to the bottom edge of the opening frame (not concealed within), so they would be quite accessible and very simple to replace (10 minute job) if only I could open the window to get to them! As you say, removing the handle only reveals the spindle hole, no way in from there.
I've even sourced all the replacement parts now, but can see no way to get at it from inside. Think I'll have to get access up to it outside to force from there, it as this will cause much less damage to the frame (I hope).

capeverde

Might get a bit more play if you take the glass out. Often their are packers toe and heeling it that stops the casement moving much. Also the gaskets 'grab' the glass stopping the casement moving.

mooch

I have the same problem on my windows. We bought the house a few months ago and since then 6 of the windows have the same problem.

It is always the bottom bolt that does not lift. The top one is fine. I've removed the bottom bolt from 5 of the windows but the 6th is already stuck closed.

I'm just wondering if you know why this happens? The house and windows are only about 7 years old. Is my best course of action to replace the gearbox?

I'm particularly concerned about all the other windows in my house which work the same. They're working okay now but if they fail they could get stuck too.

capeverde wrote: »

Really difficult one, is the locking espagnalette (circular cams) or shootbolt type that actually goes into the frame. Removing the handle wont help as all you will see is the spindle hole. Basically, inside there are two bars with serated edges. When you turn the handle they move in opposing directions. This is actually sealed inside the frame on the opening vent. To remove it you need to access it once the window is open. All you can actually do in this circumstance is to throw the handle so the one side works and try and gemmy it that way. This may or may not work, depending on how heavy handed you are. Ultimately might be an insurance claim. Ive been in the business many years and there isnt really a way around this.

ormus

remove the pins from the hinges and then you can remove the window opener.
normally just adjusting the locking bars/pins does the job.
new parts are rarely needed.

macman

The gearbox on mine had failed. The guy who fixed it had a magic tool (basically a thin bent metal rod with a sharp hook on the end). He inserted that through one of the handle mounting holes, jammed it into the serrated edges on the jammed bar, and managed to release that arm. Then just replaced the gearbox.
Easy enough if you know what you're doing. I did not, so well worth his £30 I thought.

mooch

macman wrote: »

The gearbox on mine had failed. The guy who fixed it had a magic tool (basically a thin bent metal rod with a sharp hook on the end). He inserted that through one of the handle mounting holes, jammed it into the serrated edges on the jammed bar, and managed to release that arm. Then just replaced the gearbox.
Easy enough if you know what you're doing. I did not, so well worth his £30 I thought.

Sounds like exactly what I need and I imagine it's the only way to open the window without damaging it. Thanks. :T

Any chance your guy is near Birmingham?

macman

Sorry, no, he's in London.
The alternative method is to deglaze the frame, this usually makes it flexible enough to spring the bolt free, but he didn't need to do this.