UPVC window stuck closed

xyz123

Hi, hope you all are well. I need some help with a problem please. 

I have a upvc window which is stuck closed. Handle moves the usual 90dgrees but the window lock doesn't seem to open and window remains closed.

 Also, once open what do replace to fix it? 

Any suggestions please.


Thanks

Section62

xyz123 said:

I have a upvc window which is stuck closed. Handle moves the usual 90dgrees but the window lock doesn't seem to open and window remains closed.

Is it a new fault (i.e. only just started), or have you never been able to open that window?

A picture of the general area around the handle would help confirm the type of locking mechanism and rule in/out some potential problems.

warwick2001

I had a very similar problem. The gearbox (the bit that the handle spindle slots into that physically moves the locking mechanism) had failed, hence I could turn the handle 90 degrees, but the locking mechanism didn't move. (Loads of Youtube videos explaining this, sorry if I've used the wrong terminology).

You can fix it yourself, the difficulty is actually forcing the window to unlock manually (again, can be done, Youtube to the rescue). Its ruddy hard, as obviously the windows are not designed to be opened this way. I tried, but eventually gave up and got a window repair type guy to come and sort it. Cost me 1 hour of his time, plus a new gearbox and handle. £80. I probably wouldn't have bothered if the window was hardly used, but it was the fire-exit window on the 1st floor, so needed to be operational.

TELLIT01

How long since the window was last opened?  If it has been a long time, it could simply be a case that the rubber seal has stuck to the opening part.  In that case firm, steady pressure against the opening part may free it.  If the mechanism has failed the solution will be as suggested above.

pinkteapot

warwick2001 said:

I had a very similar problem. The gearbox (the bit that the handle spindle slots into that physically moves the locking mechanism) had failed, hence I could turn the handle 90 degrees, but the locking mechanism didn't move. (Loads of Youtube videos explaining this, sorry if I've used the wrong terminology).

You can fix it yourself, the difficulty is actually forcing the window to unlock manually (again, can be done, Youtube to the rescue). Its ruddy hard, as obviously the windows are not designed to be opened this way. I tried, but eventually gave up and got a window repair type guy to come and sort it. Cost me 1 hour of his time, plus a new gearbox and handle. £80. I probably wouldn't have bothered if the window was hardly used, but it was the fire-exit window on the 1st floor, so needed to be operational.

Yep. We had this too. Also the gearbox and similar cost to repair. 

KnownMaynard

I had this too. I looked into all those videos about sliding small allen keys in and forcing the mechanism to unlock...But before trying anything else, lift the handle and slide an old credit card all around inside the seal between the window and the frame. I did this and pushed it a bit and it opened. Very satisfying bit of DIY. It's a bathroom window so been open since but one day soon I will replace the rubber seals on the frame and window to prevent it sticking again. Just got a tub of the universal seal from Screwfix and will go round them all one day and replace.

greenface2

Pic would help . Main and normal problem . Probably 70% of my calls . open another window that's the same as the stuck one . If it has shootbolts going into the side frame . The stuck one . open the handle and push firmly against each corner on the hndle side . If one flexes and the other is firmly locked the stuck one shootbolt has come away from the crank . easiest way is to unglazed to make it flexible then you should be able to lift or shift the sash over the stuck bolt . A plastic wedge would help to force it or a wide bolster nothing narrow like a chisle that can dent the frame . unscrew hinge . Take handle off . Take mechanism out . sometimes they can go back into the cog . or find a decent window doctor and buy a new gear mech . Very often a Saracen universal cost around £8 £10 . Or replace the whole mech for about 20 depending on size . pic of an open one in the house to tell properly