What to do if a window is jammed?

If a plastic window does not close, the problem cannot be ignored. If in summer this only threatens with slight discomfort, then in winter drafts are a real danger. The house becomes cold, which can cause batteries and electrical appliances to fail. We'll figure out how to diagnose and fix simple problems, and when to call a professional.

A properly functioning window is one of the components of a good microclimate in the house Source svetokna.ru

The window does not open - reasons

To find out how to open a plastic window if it jams when opening, you should determine what led to this situation. There are several reasons that prevent the sash from opening freely. Problems can be caused either by faulty fittings or by deformation of the window frame. Each type of breakdown has its own individual signs that will tell owners what to do.

Handle rotates freely

Often when you try to open a window, the handle rotates in all directions, but nothing happens. In this case, you need to consider 2 possible options:

The handle moves freely and silently both clockwise and counterclockwise, but does not transmit commands to the fittings. This indicates its breakdown - most often the problem is provoked by a cracked case that has ceased to fix the metal pin. Such a malfunction can be eliminated independently by replacing it.
The handle is working, but the commands do not reach the eccentrics that lock the sash. This means that the transmission mechanism - the gearbox - has failed. Such a breakdown is usually accompanied by a characteristic noise: creaking and even metallic crackling. You won’t be able to fix the problem on your own if you don’t have practical skills, so you need to immediately call a technician.

If such malfunctions are detected, no other measures should be taken, since all other actions can cause more serious damage.

The handle is jammed

If the handle of a plastic window is stuck in the closed position and it is impossible to turn it either to the right or to the left, you should immediately call a specialist. Under no circumstances should you try to pry the sash and try to find out for yourself what exactly is broken. Most likely the problem is in one of the knots of the strapping device, but only a master should determine this. The handle can also get jammed due to an incorrectly working lock, which slips when the sash is closed. In order to get to any mechanisms in this case, you need to remove the glass unit and press the sash. Without professional skills, you can ruin something, so it is categorically not recommended to try to save on a visit to a specialist.

The sash is sagging or deformed

The window may be difficult to open because the sash profile clings to the frame or impost. This process is sometimes accompanied by clicks and sometimes even crackling sounds. The opening procedure requires additional effort. The previous performance characteristics of the structure can only be restored by adjusting the hinges. Such repairs do not require the involvement of a specialist and are usually carried out on their own. To avoid mistakes, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the correct adjustment sequence in the review on WindowsTrade.

Friction and possible jamming of the window also occur due to incorrectly selected hinges or violation of manufacturing technologies when the permissible weight of the sashes is exceeded. In such cases, no adjustment will help, since the problem is of a different nature. It can be eliminated by reinstalling the hinges or simplifying the structure by replacing a double-chamber double-glazed window with a single-chamber one with a selective coating.

A similar situation is possible when the sash is skewed, so it is necessary to distinguish between both types of damage. The problem can only be resolved with the involvement of a specialist. Most often, such repairs are performed on site.

Most common problems

More common difficulties

If the plastic window does not open due to the handle being stuck in the open position, most likely the lock has been activated.

It is designed to protect the window mechanism from damage when the handle is lowered down when open.

To remove this problem, you should find out the brand of the window that you have installed. Markings can often be found on an iron lock.

If the AUBI mark is placed there, then in the handle area you should find a narrow metal plate with a spring. Pressing it against the seal, you need to test turning the window handle.

This should be done by installing the window sash in a vertical plane; otherwise, the upper blocker will prevent the adjustment of the mechanism.

If a plastic window with window fittings from Winkhaus, GU, Roto or some other company does not open, then you should find a metal tongue under the metal handle, press it against the seal, and turn the handle to its normal position.

The window handle does not turn completely or with force

This discrepancy arises for several reasons. First, the lubricant dries out. You can lubricate the window mechanism and all its moving parts using universal grease or machine oil.

If this does not help, it means that the problem is the sagging of the window sash of the plastic profile.

To eliminate this difficulty, you need to dismantle the decorative plug and find out which specific place in the response is most damaged by the moving roller. At this point you need to adjust the screws of the fittings.

Blowing

This malfunction can be easily removed using eccentric screws. Take a hex key and use this tool to turn the central screw of the strike plate.

The direction of rotation of the screw is determined experimentally. Some companies stuff the fittings roller with a special mark.

Is the plastic window stuck? no problem ! (how to easily fix a plastic window)!

the window is open

to the top and to the side?
the handle doesn't move? the window
doesn't lock? in my video I will show you how to do it.

What to do if the PLASTIC WINDOW DOES NOT CLOSE? JAMMED? ? Adjusting metal-plastic windows

The window is jammed. How to open? It will be useful for you. The plastic window

: How to set

This point will show the degree of pressure on the window sash: the closer the mark on the edge of the roller to the seal, the stronger the pressure.

Window handle cracked

This is the easiest problem to fix on your own. Replacing the handle of a plastic window begins with turning the mounting plate 90 degrees. Underneath you will find screws that need to be unscrewed.

These screws held the old handle, which can now be removed, a new one put in its place, and secured with screws in the same way.

It is also easy to install a plate that regulates the window in ventilation mode. The window sash opening limiter is fixed under the base of the window handle mount.

Adjusting the plastic window

To do this, you will need to tighten the screws that are located inside the perforation of the fittings.

This process is best done using an imbruce key, which is pre-selected according to the specified size. Otherwise, your best bet is to seek help from a specialist.

Remember that, as a rule, double-glazed windows have a warranty period during which you have the right to receive free service.

Specialists will be able to quickly determine the reason why the sash does not open and eliminate it.

In order for this mechanism to serve you long enough, you need to treat it with care. When switching to ventilation mode, you should slowly turn the knob to a certain position.

If the movements are sudden, you can break it. When a double-glazed window does not close without making a special sound from the handle, you should immediately seek advice from a specialist.

To prevent the system from jamming, all actions must be performed in the correct sequence and you need to know what to do, otherwise you can break it even more.

If you are trying to open the sash and the handle is jammed, it means that a special mechanism has switched it to a locked mode, which is designed to protect the plastic structure from external influences:

The first step in troubleshooting this problem is to find out what brand your window is. This can be seen on the metal lock.
When it says AUBI, you need to find the plate on the handle. It is made of thin metal and contains a spring;
Try to press it, and only after that try to turn the handle;
The sash must be in a strictly vertical position, otherwise the lock will interfere with adjusting the mechanism;
If problems arise with fittings from any other company, you should look for a small manual tongue made of steel and press it firmly against the seal;
Next, turn the handle to the desired position.

The handle does not turn all the way

If the handle does not turn completely or this action occurs only with the use of force, there may be the following reasons:

little lubrication. To do this, you can use both a special substance and car lubricants.
the sash is not in the correct position. To fix this problem, you need to remove the plug and analyze where the most damage occurred. After this, adjust the screws.

Air permeability

If this situation occurs in closed mode, then you should use an eccentric screw. This should be done using an imbrus key.

Use it to turn the plate screw. In which direction you should turn, you need to determine yourself. To do this, experiment with turning it in different directions.

The pen is damaged

This problem can be fixed very easily. In closed mode, rotate the mounting plate ninety degrees and unscrew the screws under it. Remove the broken handle and install a new one, securing it with the same bolts.

During the operation of a plastic window, a situation may arise where one or another part breaks down. This in no way threatens you with a complete replacement of the structure.

First of all, you should find out the cause of the breakdown, and then begin the process of eliminating it. You must clearly know how to properly repair the mechanism, otherwise ignorance can lead to even more serious damage to the window and its complete replacement.

The window does not close - reasons and solution

The nature of these malfunctions is in many ways similar to the problems that arise when opening the doors. They are solved in a similar way, but there are additional nuances that you need to know about.

Jamming of the blocker

In the case of open windows, the issue with the blocker is easier to solve, since there is access to it. The mentioned device is a spring-loaded mechanism and is located on the inner edge of the active leaf. How to troubleshoot problems depends on their nature:

Haste when closing the sash
- such actions often lead to the handle being blocked. Moreover, the window itself may be completely serviceable, so restoring the functionality of a jammed mechanism will not be difficult. In this case, before closing the plastic window, if the sash is jammed, you should first press the lock and then turn the handle.
The blocker slips past the mating part, as a result of which the handle remains inoperative
- it cannot be turned. This mainly occurs due to imbalance of the hinge group or deformation of the sash. If the handle is stuck in the open position, the opening mechanisms must be adjusted to resume correct operation. It may also be necessary to return the skewed sash to its correct rectangular shape.
The locking element has bent
- this can also cause the handle to jam. To restore its functions, you need to press the plate towards the street.
The springs of the locks fail
- such a breakdown can at any time cause the sash to jam. If a faulty spring is detected, the lock must be replaced immediately.

When you can’t quickly fix the problem on your own, it’s best to remove the blocker altogether. To dismantle the device, it is enough to unscrew one or two screws. You can install a new blocker yourself or invite a specialist.

Foreign objects getting into the fittings

The window opening mechanism may become clogged with debris, which prevents the sash from closing. Mostly, such problems are encountered after repairs, if the necessary measures have not been taken to protect the fittings. In this case, frozen building mixtures (cement, putty) or small pebbles interfere with the normal movement of the locking eccentrics. Moreover, even the gearbox can become clogged with debris. To resume normal operation of the window, it is recommended to remove construction dust and crumbs with a vacuum cleaner, and then wipe with a napkin and lubricate the fittings. If this does not help, you will most likely have to disassemble and clean the gearbox. In this case, it is better to call a specialist.

Skewed slot ventilation strip

If the sash sag or the screws loosen, the counter strip of the slot ventilation device may prevent the sash from closing in the upper zone of the light opening. In this case, you need to adjust the position of this element or tighten the screws. To make it easier to find the correct position, the strike plates have oval holes for screws, which allow you to move the element a few millimeters without unscrewing. If attempts to adjust the bar yourself are unsuccessful, it is better to remove it, close the sash and call a specialist.

Preventive maintenance and repair of plastic windows

If you have PVC windows in your house, you need to have an idea about their structure. Such knowledge will help you operate the structure correctly and, if necessary, carry out repairs and maintenance yourself.

Schematic photo of a two-chamber plastic window

Window lubrication

In the design of PVC windows, in addition to handles and hinges, there are many details:

locking mechanisms;
hinges;
blockers;
traction system

These elements provide the functionality of the frame and allow the doors to be opened in different modes. For proper operation, it is necessary to maintain cleanliness and lubricate the mechanisms in a timely manner.

2 times

per year recommended frequency of lubrication of windows in industrial centers

Lubrication frequency varies by region. In industrial centers there is an unfavorable environment; lubrication measures are recommended to be carried out 2 times a year. In rural areas, once every two years is sufficient.

For lubrication, special compounds are used, sold in household goods and hypermarkets. Spindle oil, liquid automotive oil, and for sewing machines are also used. Silicone-based lubricants are purchased for seals.

Buy a package with a nozzle - it’s more convenient to pour oil into the holes

How to lubricate window parts:

It’s easy to find a place for lubrication - open the sash, turn the handle;
all moving parts need lubrication;
inspect the ends, there are movable rollers, eccentrics, blockers;
All dynamic parts need lubrication.

Before starting work, you need to clean the necessary places on the window from dirt, wash the rubber bands with soapy water and dry.

Minor repairs

The cause of mechanism failure is dirt. Dust sticks to the oil and gets clogged into moving parts. As a result, it is impossible to open the sash or turn the handle. Cleaning the fittings helps restore functionality:

remove the sash from the hinges - this is not difficult, but it is difficult to hold the weight of the double-glazed window alone, you need an assistant;
remove decorative trims;
remove the axle from the top loop using pliers;
lift, remove the frame, place on the table;
Unscrew the screws, dismantle the handle, pull the mechanism out of the groove;
wash and dry all parts;
lubricate and install in place;
after attaching to the hinges, close the window by turning the handle all the way so that the sashes are pressed against the frame as much as possible;
operate the handle to open/close several times;
check the reliability of fixation in the folding position.

When disassembling the mechanism, carefully examine the details. If defects or chips are found, replace with new elements

The window is stuck in two positions - double opening

This situation is typical for tilt-and-turn windows. If you are not careful when opening/closing the sash or moving it from one position to another, it can both recline and swing open at the same time. In this case, the illusion is created that the sash is supported by only one hinge. In fact, it is held at the top by scissors, so there is no need to panic. To solve this problem you need to follow simple steps in the correct sequence:

The sagging part of the sash, which is located at the top, should be carefully pressed against the frame. It is best to apply pressing force in the immediate vicinity of the loop.
Find the erroneous action blocker on the side edge of the sash on the handle side and press it firmly with your finger.
While holding the lock, turn the handle up until it stops.
If the handle remains in place, you need to press harder on the lock.
After turning the handle up, you will need to press the sash all the way in the area of the scissor hinge.
Return the handle to the horizontal position.
Close a window.

To avoid simultaneous tilting of the sash, do not turn the handle on the sash that is not fully pressed to the frame. This most often happens when windows are closed in a hurry.

Window jammed in ventilation mode

If the tilted flap does not close in ventilation mode, the problem is most likely due to jammed scissors. Problems in the operation of this practically trouble-free element of the fittings mainly arise due to the fact that they forget to lubricate it. Sooner or later, carelessness leads to a noticeable difficulty in the reverse movement of the sash. To solve the problem, just clean the scissors with a vacuum cleaner and wipe them with a soft cloth, and then lubricate them. For these purposes you can use:

regular machine oil;
professional sprays for window fittings.

More often you have machine oil on hand, but a spray is preferable. It does not leave greasy, dirty marks, is evenly distributed over the metal surface and ensures better sliding of individual hardware elements. In addition, machine oil that gets on the elastic sealing contours can damage them.

Determine the cause of the breakdown

What to do when the plastic window does not close? You need to start by inspecting and identifying the problem area. I will name the most common reasons:

defect during installation;
frame/hinge distortion;
mechanism failure;
problem with fittings;
debris and dirt got into moving parts;
The rubber seal has failed.

All these points affect the functionality of the double-glazed window. The window mechanism works intermittently or the plastic window is completely jammed - act. Determine the cause and begin setting up the system.

When ventilating the window, the handle jammed

In some cases, problems arise not when closing, but when opening the sash for ventilation. Moreover, the difficulties are associated precisely with turning the handle, which gets stuck halfway to the top position. This jamming is explained by the fact that the window was closed in a hurry after ventilation, without fully pressing the sash. Basically, this happens with fittings that have been in use for several years and are already partially worn out. As a result of such actions, after turning the handle incompletely, the window opens slightly at the top, but does not go any further. This type of problem can also be quickly resolved on your own. When the handle of a plastic window is jammed in ventilation mode, you need to involve a technician. Moreover, you will have to call a specialist even if you managed to solve the problem with tilting the sash on your own. After all, such behavior of the fittings indicates its incorrect operation and requires a professional inspection of all the components of the opening mechanism.

Crevices

Gaps in plastic windows appear due to wear of the seal. There may be factory defects that will manifest themselves immediately or after several years of operation. It is important to understand why a plastic window does not close completely - in the first case, repairs are possible, but in the second, a complete replacement is needed. To understand this, you need to examine the place where the sash comes into contact with the frame.

Methods for detecting cracks in a window:

By hand. Near those places where there are cracks, the skin will feel a breeze and cold. The method only works in winter; in warm weather it is ineffective.
With a sheet of paper. This test determines the tightness of the sash. If the paper comes out easily, the window is not closed tightly.
With the help of a candle. Where it blows, the candle flame will deviate.
By humidity. Moisture from the air in the room always condenses around the cracks. In autumn these are small droplets, in winter they are ice.

Balcony door jammed

Door blocks are structurally slightly different from window blocks. Their opening mechanisms are supplemented with a special latch, so other methods are used to eliminate the malfunction. If the balcony door is jammed, you need to check this element of the hardware first. However, for inspection you will first need to open the sash. To open a door stuck in a light opening, you will need:

Turn the handle to a strictly horizontal position.
Using the base of the handle, slightly lift the sash.
Pull the raised door towards you.

When opening the sash in this way, you need to be careful not to damage the balcony block. This method of opening is not only inconvenient, but is also only allowed in extreme cases. Regular use will cause more serious damage, so you must immediately adjust the latch. This procedure is performed in several stages:

Using a Phillips screwdriver, unscrew the screws on the counter plate halfway.
The latch is lowered a few millimeters so that its center coincides with the middle of the pin attached to the door leaf.
The strike plate is fixed in a new place.

Changing the location of the latch temporarily and partially solves the problem that may be caused by sagging sash. The canvas may soon drop even lower. This will cause the sash profile to cling to the door frame.

To prevent the plastic balcony door from jamming again, it is recommended to call a specialist to adjust it. The specialist will give the door the correct position and check whether the installed hinges are designed to support the weight of the door.

What to do if the windows are jammed due to the opening being skewed

This type of breakdown can only be determined by a specialist. In critical situations, such malfunctions are signaled by cracked double-glazed windows or a deformed profile. In most cases, this problem can only be solved by installing new windows. Most often, with minor distortions of the openings, the sashes jam only when the dimensions are incorrectly determined and the windows are made with large dimensions. To avoid such breakdowns, during the manufacture and installation of windows it is necessary to strictly comply with the technologies and requirements of GOSTs.

What to do to prevent windows from jamming

It is impossible to completely eliminate the likelihood of breakdowns, but reducing their number is within the power of every window owner. The best prevention is regular maintenance of the opening mechanisms. You can perform such procedures yourself. They do not require special tools or materials that are not commercially available. OknaTrade has published detailed material on how to take care of fittings. Practical recommendations from this article will help to avoid not only jamming of the sashes, but also many other breakdowns. In addition, during operation the following precautions should be observed:

do not leave windows open in strong winds to avoid strong impacts;
do not turn the handles until the sash is pressed tightly against the frame;
do not rush and do not open the window until the handle is installed in the correct position;
Do not use excessive force when closing/opening the doors.

Compliance with these simple rules will significantly extend the life of windows without major repairs or replacement of components. After all, the cause of many breakdowns is careless handling of profile structures. Some faults that cause windows to open incorrectly can be eliminated yourself, while others can only be eliminated with the help of a specialist. However, in any case, if there are problems with the operation of the fittings, in the foreseeable future you will need to call a specialist. After all, a minor malfunction may in fact be the initial sign of a major breakdown, and only a professional can determine this.

Even when the operation of a window or door unit is quickly restored on your own, it is recommended to conduct an expert inspection of the structures to identify all hidden faults.