windows sticking

[bullethead123]

Hi all,
Just moved into a new flat and have had some probs with the windows. A few were blown, one handle didn't work and two of them stick on the latch plate when opening/closing. I got a guy in to sort it all out, and he did so, except for the sticking problem. He told me that it was a common problem with that type of window (quite large and hinged at the top). He said that the sheer weight of the glass causes the frame to bow, and that nothing can be done.
However, on closer inspection, I find that the worst window sticks only on one side and, after taking off the latch plate, it doesn't stick at all.
Is it possible to source a latch plate with a lower profile or, failing that would it be OK to grind about an eighth of an inch off the bottom of it?
Thanks in advance.

 

[crank39]

does the flat suffer from condensation or is it a bathroom window?

 

[bullethead123]

Yes. there is evidence of a condensation problem. is it relevant to the sticking problem?

 

[crank39]

Its relevant to a rusty frame keep, these things are zinc plated, how the hell did it ever go that rusty?

If you open the window right out and look at the hinges, the half that is screwed to the opener not the frame, you should see 3 maybe 4 screws, one of the holes will be round, the rest elongated, with the screw out the round hole removed try pushing the opener up, may need a second person, it'll only need to go up a couple of mm, now put the screw back in preferably biting into fresh plastic not the same hole

 

[bullethead123]

how the hell did it ever go that rusty?

I was told that the previous occupants (it was tenanted) never opened the windows, hence the condensation. Are those frame keeps easy to source? I can't find them on ebay.

with the screw out the round hole removed try pushing the opener up

Thanks for that tip. I'll have a look tomorrow and report back. It would seem strange that the three window guys I had round to quote didn't mention it though. The guy who did the job did replace one hinge, but that was on a non-sticking window.

 

[crank39]

Search then for pvc window espag keeps or strikers, you should get some results then. However the keeps are frame specific and the underside matches the contours of the pvc frame.....the 'profile' as we call it in the trade, without knowing which make of profile you have then its just as best to buy some universal ones

 

[bullethead123]

Thanks Crank,
Just found this universal one. It claims a height of 6mm. My rusty one is 12mm height. Might kill two birds with one stone here.

http://www.double-glazing-parts-rep...l6NoskKSyKyEE3im2SvsJqjpSDieTV5xoCuxYQAvD_BwE

 

[bullethead123]

Or This one, which includes packing pieces.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Universa...560&pg=2047675&_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851

 

[bullethead123]

Sorted. Had to drill mew fixing holes in the UPVC but the 8cm keep seems to have solved the sticking prob. Have already ordered another for the kitchen window.
Thanks for your help Crank

 

[crank39]

My pleasure