Problem with lounge window

moonpenny

Double glazed upvc window has gaps which have opened up each side on interior of window where the sealant is. South facing, the gaps close up when sun is out.

Then noticed paint at the top of window was coming away but on inspection it is the plaster. There is a big crack going across the top ( the inner bit of window which the blind is fitted to)
Looking outside think I found the problem. Half bricks across the top of window- looks like I could almost pull one out so water has probably got in though everything is totally dry. Also,outside sealant doesn't look great.

Who do I get in to do this and will in have to be totally refitted or can it be fixed as is?
Sorry for long winded xplanation.

FreeBear

How old is the property ?

In old houses (usually pre-war), there would be a wooden lintel supporting the inside course of bricks, and the outer would be held up by the window frame. This worked fine with wooden frames, but uPVC is not structural and provides zero support.

Where there is an unsupported course of bricks, the correct solution would be to install a steel - This would either be a modern pressed steel lintel, or a suitable length of treated angle iron.

I would suggest getting the fitters back to rectify the problem - This will require the window to be removed, and (probably) fit some steelwork to support the brickwork.

moonpenny

The house was built late 50,s. Window is 7 ft wide.
Not possible to get original (local) fitters back as no longer in business and windows were fitted over 12 years ago.
Would I need a general builder or specialized window fitter?

EssexExile

I had a similar situation, when it rained hard against the window water poured down the inside of the glass!

I'd go for a general builder, I asked a builder friend & he summed up the situation FreeBear describes & would've fixed it, but I was having new windows in the whole house anyway so window company did it. I fear they may not have bothered if I wasn't watching them.