Introduction: the importance of a properly closed window
A window that doesn’t close properly is much more than a simple everyday inconvenience. This type of issue has direct repercussions on quality of life in the home. From an energy standpoint, it can cause a 10% to 15% increase in heating consumption due to air leaks and heat loss. From a safety standpoint, a window that no longer locks effectively becomes a vulnerability in home protection, knowing that about 22% of break-ins occur through a poorly secured window or patio door.
It is therefore essential to learn how to identify the causes, recognize signs of wear, and apply the right solutions—whether simple maintenance steps or professional repairs.
Summary of key points
| Key point | Why it matters | Possible consequences |
|---|---|---|
| A window must close properly | Thermal comfort and security | Excess energy use, easier intrusion |
| Common causes | Material expansion, mechanism wear, poor alignment | Closing difficulties, drafts, heat loss |
| Simple solutions | Cleaning, lubrication, seal adjustments | Prevent wear and extend service life |
| When to call a pro | Misalignment, sagging hinges, blocked cremone | Durable and safe repair |
| Prevention | Regular maintenance and annual inspection | Risk reduction and energy savings |
What are the causes of a window that no longer closes properly?
Impact of temperature variations
Windows are constantly exposed to the weather, and materials react differently depending on the season.
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Wood windows: wood is a living material that absorbs moisture. During a particularly hot, humid summer, it swells and can jam the closure. Conversely, a dry winter can cause shrinkage that leaves gaps.
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PVC windows: they don’t rot and resist moisture well, but they can warp slightly due to temperature changes. This slight movement is enough to create a misalignment in the hinges.
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Aluminium windows: more stable, they are nonetheless sensitive to thermal expansion, which can affect the play in the weather seals.
These natural reactions sometimes require a seasonal adjustment of the hardware and locking points to maintain smooth, airtight closing.
Wear and aging of mechanisms
Even a high-quality window eventually shows signs of wear after several years.
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The handle can become stiff to operate, loosen, or crack.
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The cremone bolt (vertical bar that enables multipoint locking) can jam, especially if it hasn’t been lubricated regularly.
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The locking points can lose precision and create play that prevents perfect compression of the sash.
Ignoring these signs may worsen the issue: a poorly adjusted part can cause accelerated wear of the entire mechanism, making the repair more complex and costly.
How to recognize a window that closes poorly
Increased energy consumption
A faulty window acts like a thermal bridge: indoor heat escapes and outdoor cold enters more easily. You may notice:
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a feeling of cold air near the glazing,
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a temperature difference between rooms with windows in good condition and those with defects,
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an increasing energy bill with no other explanation.
These clues should prompt you to check the condition of the seals and the closure.
Security risk
Incomplete locking offers only partial protection. Burglars can easily spot this type of weakness. A window that doesn’t latch fully or whose handle doesn’t turn properly can be forced in a few seconds. This issue should never be considered minor.
Visible signs
Several concrete indicators should raise the alarm:
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Stiff handle: difficult to turn or requires pressing hard.
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Damaged seals: cracked, crushed, or missing.
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Visible gap: light or air passing between the sash and the frame.
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Creaking noises: unusual sounds during operation, indicating rubbing or misalignment.
Repairs: tenant or landlord?
The division of responsibilities is defined by law and must be well understood:
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The tenant handles routine maintenance. This includes cleaning, lubrication, and minor repairs (tightening screws, replacing a low-cost handle).
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The landlord is responsible for repairs related to normal wear or structural defects. Replacing a worn cremone bolt or restoring a sagging window is their responsibility.
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Negligence can reverse responsibility. If the tenant has never maintained the windows, accelerated deterioration may be attributed to them.
Knowing these rules helps avoid disputes and allows quick action when a problem arises.
Practical solutions for fixing a window that closes poorly
Basic measures and regular maintenance
Minimal maintenance often helps avoid costly repairs.
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Cleaning the locking components: Over time, dust and moisture accumulate in the mechanisms. This grime hinders the movement of parts. It’s recommended to regularly wipe the cremone bolt, hinges, and frame with a soft cloth. Quarterly maintenance is often enough to extend service life.
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Lubricating moving parts: Like any mechanical system, the hardware and hinges need lubrication. A spray of silicone lubricant or dry graphite applied twice a year reduces friction and prevents corrosion.
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Checking the weatherstripping/seals: Rubber seals lose elasticity over time. If you feel the window no longer “sticks” well to the frame, it’s time to replace the seal. Proper compression ensures thermal and acoustic insulation.
Simple adjustments
Before calling a professional, a few steps can solve a one-off problem:
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Press gently on the sash while operating the handle to free a jammed cremone bolt.
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Adjust the compression screws on the hardware to restore airtightness.
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Visually check the alignment of the sash and frame to detect misadjustment.
When should you call a professional?
Carpenter intervention
A carpenter is the person to contact if the window itself is the problem. Their expertise is necessary in cases of:
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sash misalignment,
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weakened hinges,
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deformation of the frame due to moisture or the age of the material.
They can carry out precise adjustments, or even plane a small part of the sash in the case of wood.
Locksmith intervention
A locksmith is the expert in locking mechanisms. They step in when:
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the cremone bolt is jammed or broken,
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the handle no longer turns properly,
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the locking points don’t engage.
They have suitable replacement parts and ensure a durable repair.
Comparison table of interventions
| Type of issue | Possible DIY intervention | When to call a professional |
|---|---|---|
| Stiff or loose handle | Tighten screws, lubricate regularly | If the handle is cracked or unusable |
| Jammed cremone bolt | Attempt to free it with a lubricant | Locksmith for full replacement |
| Minor misalignment | Manual hinge adjustment | Carpenter if there’s structural sagging |
| Worn weather seal | Simple seal replacement | Professional if overall airtightness remains insufficient |
| Swollen sash (wood) | Natural drying and regular maintenance | Planing or replacement by a carpenter |
Preventing future closing problems
Prevention is key to avoiding major repairs:
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Annual inspection: at least once a year, check every window, including those rarely used.
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Systematic cleaning: remove leaves, dust, and moisture from tracks and hardware.
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Lubrication: apply a suitable lubricant twice a year, before winter and after spring.
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Seal check: make sure the seal is supple and continuous. A cracked seal should be replaced quickly.
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Preventive adjustments: tightening hinge screws or adjusting locking points prevents the problem from worsening over time.
Regular maintenance ensures not only the longevity of windows but also better energy performance and enhanced security.
Conclusion: act quickly for greater comfort and security
A window that no longer closes properly should never be ignored. The consequences directly affect your energy budget, home security, and everyday well-being.
Solutions exist: regular maintenance, simple adjustment steps, or intervention by qualified professionals. The important thing is not to let the issue drag on, as a small inconvenience can quickly turn into a major breakdown.
To ensure reliable repairs and lasting comfort, it’s recommended to call on qualified specialists. Companies like Fenomax have the expertise and know-how to extend the life of windows while improving your home’s energy efficiency and security.
