If the window does not close - possible causes and troubleshooting methods

Adjusting plastic windows is necessary if you notice that the window is difficult to open or has begun to leak. Most faults can be easily fixed by yourself, without turning to specialists. You will not only save money, but also extend the life of your PVC windows.

Many owners have to deal with how to independently adjust plastic windows. Most often, adjustment is required before the onset of warm and cold seasons. Periodic adjustment of windows is also necessary to prevent problems. To solve them yourself and increase the service life of double-glazed windows, it is worth getting acquainted with the instructions proposed in the article. They will allow you to solve problems with sagging or loose closing - or perform seasonal adjustments of plastic windows yourself. Sometimes a simple furniture key will be enough for this. In other cases, only professionals can guarantee quick and effective repairs.

DIY tool for repairing plastic windows

Regardless of the manufacturer and company that installed the plastic glazing, their mechanisms, and therefore the fittings adjustment schemes, will be similar. Although the adjustment itself does not take much time, before you start repairing plastic windows with your own hands, you should prepare all the necessary tools. Their set depends on the type of problem - but in most cases these will be sufficient:

1. Pliers will be needed if the eccentrics are oval or round in shape. These are rare these days, but if the window is old, pliers will come in handy. 2. A regular shaped screwdriver. For windows, size 3 or 4 is suitable. 3. Lubricant for rubbing mechanisms. The best is WD-40.

Hex key for adjusting plastic windows by 4 mm. Brush for cleaning dirty mechanisms.

The main tool for repairing a plastic window mechanism with your own hands will still be a hex wrench. It is used to make most of the adjustments. You can buy it to repair plastic window fittings yourself. They are sold individually and in sets of different sizes, costing about 200 rubles.

Most common problems

• When closing or opening, the window sash touches the profile or fittings;
• An invigorating breeze blows from the “tightly” closed window;
• The handle has become loose or, on the contrary, has become uncomfortably tight;
• After opening the window, the handle suddenly jammed.

There are others, but these are typical.

I will say right away that there are problems that arose due to a violation of the basic technology during the manufacture or installation of the profile. Are the windows adjustable in such cases? Not always. One positive point is that these problems usually appear immediately, and for a “fresh issue” you can always call the seller’s representative (installer). Some “experienced” reason for repairs is improper operation.

Problems with windows that you can solve yourself

Troubleshooting some hardware problems is a task for specialists. When doing repairs yourself, there is a risk of damage to the sash mechanisms, and even the entire glass unit. However, in most cases, repairs and adjustments can be performed by you without contacting specialists. The list of tasks that are easy to perform includes: 1. Setting the mode for winter or summer. Modern models make it possible to quickly and easily adjust winter and summer plastic windows in order to function better at different times of the year. 2. Setting the sash to “catch” the frame when closing. 3. Adjustment of the moving parts of the window unit when the structure is jammed in the open position or the plane does not fit tightly to the window seal. 4. Replacement of the rubber seal, which leads to seal failure. It is performed on average every 5-7 years, as it wears out. 5. Elimination of the problem with the activation of the erroneous action blocker. Occurs when the handle is accidentally turned if the sash is slightly open. The upper part in this case falls out when opening. The handle is blocked, but the sash does not close, sagging on one hinge. 6. Adjusting the handle, which can become loose or, conversely, jam.

In order to encounter fewer problems, you should immediately choose high-quality and inexpensive plastic window blocks that have good fittings. Moreover, low-quality plastic can warp and lose shape, making it impossible to close the window. Instead of repairing such glazing, problems will often have to be solved only by replacement.

Heavy turning of the plastic window handle

The malfunction is hidden in rare lubrication of the part. If the lubricant dries out, select the desired penetrating composition with the help of consultants. The algorithm for fixing the problem is simple:

• a tube is mounted on the container with the product (included in the package);
• The lubricant is carefully applied to the desired surface.

These simple steps will make turning the mechanism much easier in the future. If you did not purchase lubricant in bottles, you can use a simple cotton swab or paint brush to lubricate it.

Adjusting winter and summer modes

The main task of adjusting plastic windows for the winter is to increase the service life of the sealing gum and regulate the microclimate in the house. Changing the degree of fit of the sash to the frames allows you to compensate for seasonal changes in the size of the seal.

Thus, thanks to the adjustment of plastic windows for the winter, when the material contracts, complete tightness and minimal heat loss are ensured. In summer, the seal expands, and it is recommended to loosen the clamp. Seasonal operating mode settings should be made in the following cases: • the plastic window does not close tightly, ineffectively protecting the premises from cold in winter and from dust in summer; • a plastic window does not close well, jammed during ventilation - the solution to the problem can be found by knowing how to adjust the sashes for winter or summer; • the handle of the plastic window does not close completely because the clamp is incorrectly adjusted; • worn hinges have led to sagging of the sashes - the problem can be solved by knowing how to adjust plastic windows for the winter, but sometimes you have to replace worn parts. Adjustment work begins with a search for all trunnions (eccentrics) on the sashes, the number of which depends on the size of the window.

The larger the double-glazed window, the more difficult it will be to set up the mode. Trunnions can be located on the doors at the top or bottom. If you have a wide window sill, it may be difficult to access the lower eccentrics.

On the left, the trunnions are adjusted using a hex key. On the right they rotate with pliers. 1. Summer mode 2. Middle position 3. Winter mode

In the next step, before adjusting the plastic window so that it closes tightly, use pliers (for old windows) or a hex wrench. Each trunnion rotates to adjust the level of pressure.

Sometimes you can adjust the pressure eccentric (trunnion) only by pulling it towards you. When rotating, focus on the trunnion marks or the position of the eccentric.

The last stage is to check the correct adjustment of the pressure of plastic windows and other settings. To do this, close the window sash, paying attention to how tightly the handle turns. For winter mode, the level of pressure on the sash is stronger, and it is more difficult to turn the handle. Another way to check the adjustment of plastic windows yourself for winter or summer requires the use of a paper sheet. They press the paper with the flap and try to pull it back out. In winter mode, the sheet should come out more difficult, when setting the summer settings it should be easier.

The pressure is adjusted depending on the season - in the summer it is weakened, in the winter it is strengthened. Although, the harder the doors are pressed, the faster the sealing material wears out.

Pressing eccentrics are available not only on the handle side, but also on the hinge side. Accordingly, all trunnions located on the sash must be in the same position.

What is hardware and why is it needed?

Window fittings are a set of mechanisms that ensure the full functioning of a plastic double-glazed window. Since manufacturers offer different types and models of PVC windows, their equipment differs.

The required fittings kit for a plastic window includes:

• lock;
• pen;
• folding scissors;
• seals;
• loops;
• corner switch;
• trunnions;
• strike plate;
• Tilt blocker (prevents the window from tilting more than necessary).

Each of these elements has its own service life and breaks down over time. Then it has to be changed.

Replacing the seal

Sealing materials on plastic glazing are needed not only to soften the impact of the sash on the frame, but also to protect the room from cold, dust and noise. But after several years of use, the effectiveness of the seals decreases by 20-30%, which leads to the need to clean or replace them. By replacing the material, the homeowner will increase energy saving and noise insulation, and make closing and opening easier.

The need to replace seals is determined not by timing, but by the degree of wear. When the material stops being pressed tightly, drafts appear in the room even when the sash is closed. In winter, the room becomes colder. To replace, the old seal will have to be removed and a new one glued on.

The need to replace the seal is extremely rare. If it is blowing from under the window, you most likely need to adjust the pressing force of the sash.

Possible malfunctions of a plastic window

Problems that occur most often:

• poor handle fixation;
• the appearance of a draft from the seals;
• the handle is too tight, it is impossible to turn;
• incorrect position of the sash in relation to the frame;
• cracks on the surface of the handle.

Why might a breakdown occur? Structural parts tend to wear out, like any mechanism. If the wear is severe, adjustment of the pressure of the sashes to the surface of the frame is necessary. It may be due to improper installation and you will need to call a specialist to your home to completely reinstall the system.

Adjusting the sash sag

It is worth adjusting the shutters if the plastic window does not close, and the frame is being touched from above or below. To adjust, you will have to remove the cover and set the ventilation mode.

The cover is removed from the loop by prying its lower left edge and pulling up. Now it’s worth checking if the plastic window does not close at the top or bottom - both the adjustment methods and the angles of rotation of the key will depend on this.

Main adjustment points for PVC windows

There are three points through which adjustment is made:

1. Bottom loop. Here you can raise the sash or lower it, or move it horizontally. The displacement usually does not exceed 2 mm.
2. Top loop. Here you can only achieve movement in the horizontal direction.
3. Trunnions, also known as eccentrics, located on the side of the plastic window sash. With their help, the pressure is adjusted. Their number varies from 4 to 8, respectively, and there may be several adjustment points.

Adjusting the bottom hinge vertically

If the plastic window does not close from the top, that is, the sash clings to the top of the frame, rotation is performed counterclockwise.

To fix the problem, you will need to lower the sash slightly vertically: 1. Insert a hex key into the adjustment hole. 2. Turn the tool counterclockwise half a turn or a full turn until the sash begins to lower. 3. Check how the sash closes. If it still clings, the key is turned again.

If the plastic window from below does not close, it touches the frame, as shown in the figure below, turn the key clockwise. So the sash will begin to rise.

Poor closure with a working mechanism

Sometimes checking the window structure does not reveal any problems, and all mechanisms do their job properly. However, when I try to return the sash to its original closed position, the window still does not close. The cause may be an interfering drainage strip . It is installed on the outside of the window with a symmetrical arrangement. When the bar moves, a mechanical obstacle to closing arises. The error is corrected by returning the bar to its original position.

All the options described earlier relate to the main problems with fittings that homeowners can eliminate. However, there are other reasons for the improper operation of the structure, which will require certain experience and special knowledge in the field of window manufacturing. If the problem cannot be solved on its own, you will need to change the entire mechanism completely.

Avoiding annoying misunderstandings when opening and closing windows will allow you to contact only trusted manufacturers of plastic structures and purchase windows made from high-quality components. In addition, a more expensive window most often has a longer warranty period.

Adjusting the bottom hinge horizontally

Having dealt with the vertical adjustments, you should adjust the hinges in the horizontal plane. This need arises if the sash touches the frame from the side.

The problem can be solved this way: 1. Open the window. If slopes interfere with adjustment, the sash must be fully open. In this case, the hinges are adjusted from the reverse side.

There is also a screw on the back side

2. Turn the hex key. If the sash catches the frame at the bottom left, rotation is performed clockwise. If the fit is too tight to the loop, counterclockwise.

3. Continue turning the key until the door begins to press against the hinge and close normally. Check the tightness of the closure every half turn.

Sometimes a screw is installed on the lower hinges, allowing you to adjust the pressure from below. A key is also used for adjustment. The degree of pressure is selected according to the season.

This screw regulates the pressing force of the lower corner of the sash. Happens not on all windows.

Recommendations for adjusting a plastic window

There are some rules for performing regulatory actions. Stock up on the necessary tools - anything can come in handy. Focus on the condition of the sealing material - work can only begin if there is no mechanical damage or deformation. If this is present, call a technician to replace the element. To change the seal, you will have to dismantle the doors, install new material and cover it with sealed silicone grease.

When a replacement is made, adjustments cannot be made immediately - the sashes must rub against the frames. It is important to work carefully with the hex key: if you make more turns than necessary, you can completely unscrew the entire sash. The permissible number of revolutions is 1 - 2.

It’s not difficult to adjust a metal-plastic window yourself, but if you don’t have experience with tools, it’s better to leave the job to a specialist. If the window installation was carried out not so long ago, it is covered by a warranty period - the organization’s specialists are obliged to inspect and repair everything free of charge. “Prevention” is important - carry out a full window adjustment a couple of times a year, in the cold and warm seasons, when the transition to the “winter-summer” modes is relevant. If you ignore the advice, you will soon need to replace the window structure.

Adjusting the top hinge

Adjusting the top hinges usually raises the bottom corner on the window handle side.

This allows you to compensate for the subsidence of the structure, which causes it to cling to the frame. Procedure: 1. Rotate the adjusting screw clockwise, without unscrewing it completely, so that the edge does not cling to the mechanism and interfere with closing.

2. Continue turning, controlling the clearance and angle rise. 3. If you need to lower the upper corner, perform the same actions, changing the direction of rotation - counterclockwise. The pressure for the top hinge will not have to be adjusted on all sashes, but only on the folding ones. To gain access, you will have to open the window and turn the handle to set the ventilation mode. This will allow you to get to the hexagon responsible for the clamping force.

When making adjustments, you should hold the moving part of the structure, the load from which falls on the lower hinge.

How to remove drafts

To ventilate the room, you need to turn the handle to a certain position, opening the upper part of the window. In winter, the opening between the sash and the frame allows a lot of cold air to pass through, so adjustment of the hinges of the locking and turning mechanism is required. To do this, you need to put the window on ventilation and press the top hinge - when it gets warmer you can return it to its previous position. Sometimes air enters the room through a closed window, seeping through the cracks.

There is a proven method for determining a draft: hold a burning match or candle to a completely closed window and watch the fire fluctuate - make adjustments where the draft is most noticeable. There are two options to solve the problem:

Adjust eccentrics:

• Using a wrench or pliers, move the fasteners:
• the rotation of the part should be no more than a couple of millimeters;
• if necessary, make the sash weaker - just turn the eccentric in the opposite direction, counterclockwise.

The second option: get rid of the draft by adjusting the pressure plate, which is located on the surface of the frame on the hinge side. To adjust the position, you need to turn the wrench in the direction of the clock hand. The tongue moves forward, and the sash is pressed against the window.

Mechanism lubrication

Metal fittings are lubricated annually - usually in the spring, when warm weather sets in. As a lubricant, you can use machine oil for sewing machines - or special products such as WD-40.

To apply new lubricant, the sash should be opened and the remaining old lubricant removed, then lubricate the fastenings. Seals should also be treated with a special compound that prevents them from drying out and losing elasticity.

General recommendations

Good windows are those that are regularly maintained. Check rubber and silicone seals annually. If necessary, change it;

• — carefully remove plastic decorative elements. They are quite “flimsy”;
• — if the window frame or opening is deformed, call a specialist. You won’t be able to do it yourself;
• - If you have doubts that you cannot fix the problem on your own, call a specialist.

That's all for now. In this article I tried to highlight the most popular and common situations. But don't think that nothing else will happen.

From the customer’s dialogue : “We need a five-chamber double-glazed window and a two-chamber frame. Or vice versa... – a single-chamber double-glazed window and a two-chamber profile. Or. In general, with winter ventilation.”

Conclusion: if you don’t know what you want, you don’t know what you’ll get.

I hope this information was informative. If yes, then subscribe to our public page “VKontakte” and recommend it to your friends on social networks.

Good luck with sealed, warm windows in winter! Bye! Bye!

Wisdom Quote: Any question can be answered if the question is asked correctly.

Adjusting the window handle

Problems with handles are one of the most common problems when using double-glazed windows.

The steps to eliminate them depend on the type of problem: • If the handle simply wobbles, you need to firmly tighten the two bolts located under the plug with a screwdriver. • If the plastic window does not close and the handle does not turn completely, the problem can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the mechanism. To work, remove the part and use WD-40. • If problems arise with the handle due to strong pressure, it must be loosened by adjusting the eccentrics at the end and the bolts on the hinges. See the winter mode adjustment section. The handle may jam, after which it is impossible to close the structure. But to solve the problem it is not necessary to change the fittings. Most likely, the handle jams due to a triggered lock, which prevents you from changing the position of the sash. The problem can be resolved by manually releasing the locking lever.

We looked at the most common failures of PVC windows. Now you can adjust the windows yourself! We carefully look and listen to what prevents the sash from closing normally. We adjust the corresponding screws with a hex key and achieve free opening and closing of the window sash without friction.

How to adjust “winter - summer” on a plastic window

To adjust the window in the two indicated modes, you need to change the position of the trunnions, strengthen or make less tight the pressing of the sash to the surface of the frame. Many designs assume that the trunnion is moved to the middle position - this ensures loose pressure on the sash without allowing air into the room.

How to switch to winter mode

In frosty and cold weather, it is very important to conserve heat - the sash should not let in low temperatures and cold air from outside. The load on the seal will be large if the position of the eccentric is changed. At the same time, the trunnion shifts to the right and is pulled towards itself. There are several tips for completing the process correctly:

• The distance between the handle and the roller should be small. The location of the notch will indicate whether the installation work was completed correctly. If everything is done correctly, it is located towards the seal;
• if the window installation was carried out not so long ago, experts recommend refraining from switching to the “winter” mode. The rotary locking mechanism can cause deformation of the sealant layer over the winter.

If you neglect these tips, the sealing material will not recover when heat sets in.

How to switch to "summer"

When it gets warmer, you can move the fittings to the “summer” position. When switching to the “summer” mode, the load on the compactor increases significantly. It is recommended to follow these instructions:

• pull the pin and move it to the left. The roller is translated thanks to the notch;
• the trunnion should “look” at the window handle after moving.

Upon completion of the process, the load on the sealing material becomes less. This increases the flow of fresh air entering the room. Craftsmen advise that you always change the position of the roller: during the warm season, the doors are constantly “in motion”: positions and modes change, opening and closing occurs.

Balcony door fittings jam - how to adjust

In cases where the balcony door handle does not turn, it is worth identifying the cause of the problem. Most often, it consists of a product mechanism clogged with dust and dirt.

The solution is to clean and then lubricate the mechanism. In this case, work is performed in the following algorithm:

• the handle is dismantled;
• clean the mechanism inside the product and the mounting hole;
• The cleaned surface is lubricated with special grease or machine oil.

If the handle is broken

How to replace the handle on a plastic window if it is broken?

The need to replace the handle may arise not only due to a breakdown of the mechanism: it may crack, it may become unusable due to too long a period of use, and it may require replacement if you simply decided to install the handle with a lock so that small children cannot adjust its condition.

One way or another, the old handle is removed by unscrewing the two screws described above that secure it to the base of the frame. It is important to first open the window so that the handle is locked in the “open” position.

Having removed the screws from the frame and carefully removed the handle, you perform the same steps in reverse order, but using a new spare part. Anyone can carry out such manipulations; it is not at all difficult. You just need to insert the pin of the new handle into the corresponding hole and screw it to the frame with a Phillips screwdriver using the same screws.

Tools needed for repairs

How to finish the handle on a plastic window? What hexagon is needed to adjust the window sash mechanism?

To counteract one or another vagaries of a plastic window, you will need the minimum of tools that will ensure a complete repair of the identified faults.

• First: screwdrivers. You will need both a cross and a flat one.
• Second: a set of “stars”. The fittings in the windows of individual manufacturers differ, so you cannot do without screwdriver attachments.
• Third: hexagon. This must be a 4mm furniture wrench; you can find one in almost any tool set.
• Fourth: In some cases, WD-40 spray may be required.

If the handle is jammed

You have probably encountered a situation in which the window handle was in a position that was completely inconsistent with the position of the sash. You try to turn it, but this is not possible - the handle is jammed.

For example, a window panel may be open, but for some reason the handle is in the “closed” position. You are planning to close the window, but nothing comes of it because it is completely impossible to turn the handle. What to do in this case?

The first and most important rule: do not pull the handle, do not subject it to strong mechanical stress, this will not bring you any results, especially positive ones. The cause of such a malfunction is a late reaction to the action of the blocker, and tugging will not help here.

A lock is an element of window fittings aimed at preventing the handle from turning in a certain position. The purpose of its installation is to prevent accidental breakage of the window structure.

At the moment the handle is turned to the folding position (when it looks up) or to the rotary position (when it is in a horizontal position), this same blocker is activated. It resists involuntary turning of the handle. And sometimes it happens that the blocker’s response to movement is not triggered in a timely manner. The reason for this may be moving the handle too quickly from one position to another. That is why it is very important to handle it carefully, smoothly, without haste.

How to act in a situation where the handle of a plastic window is jammed? The first priority is to determine the labeling of a specific hardware manufacturer. Depending on the specific company, the methods for disabling the blocker may be different. You can read its name on any metal component of the window leaf.

• AUBI. To turn off accessories from this manufacturer, you must move the handle to the vertical position. In the case of a tilt-and-turn position, the lock will become an obstacle to turning the handle. Therefore, in order to adjust the handle on a plastic window, you need to move the sash to the vertical position, find a plate with a spring on the end side of the sash in the area where the handle is located and press it against the seal. After this, you can safely return the sash to its usual position.
• Roto, Maco, GU. The fittings of these manufacturers also contain a metal plate, but it is not located vertically, but at an angle to the sash and frame. It is necessary to apply pressure on it so that it is parallel to the frame (strictly vertical). After this, you will be able to turn the window handle to the desired position. If the handle still does not turn, this means that the lock is slipping and is not in contact with the response mechanism due to thermal expansion. The problem can be resolved by removing the response mechanism by unscrewing the screws from the frame and placing a piece of thin plastic between it and the frame. When you screw the mechanism with the backing back to its original place, the blocker will begin to cling to it again, and the operation of the handle will resume.
• Winkhaus. Some systems from this manufacturer only provide a blocker, without a response mechanism.

The lock is located on the scissors of the folding element. During operation, it tends to wear out quickly and, accordingly, become malfunctioning: the handle can only be turned upward and horizontally.

You should not try to lower it down, because this can break the main locking gearbox. If the window is still under warranty, it is recommended to contact a professional. If you decide to repair the window yourself, then you will have to completely remove the sash from the window hinges, pull out the decorative trim, and remove the pin using a screwdriver and pliers. Remove the scissors, remove the blocker and install the scissors back. Consistently perform the above steps in reverse order and return the window panel to its place.

If all of the above procedures did not help you and you were unable to achieve the desired result, do not be zealous. Experts will help you adjust the handle on a plastic window (or replace it).

Which pen to choose

It is noteworthy that all handles for plastic windows are absolutely identical in their fastening characteristics. That is, almost any window handle is considered universal and will definitely fit any window model and fittings. They can differ in color, shape, texture, they can have a lock or a groove for fingers, they can have a “comb” that prevents children from opening the window - these can be a wide variety of models. But all options will fit the standard cross-section of fasteners on the window frame.

At the moment, consumers are not limited in any way in choosing the appropriate model. You can purchase a pen from Chinese, Turkish, Austrian, German, Polish manufacturers and be completely satisfied with your choice.

The price category varies depending on the quality of the manufactured product and the country of origin: here everyone has the right to choose a pen themselves, based on their capabilities and wishes. A Chinese pen will cost you 200 rubles, a German one – up to 750.