Window Not Closing Properly
A window that will not shut fully, leaving a gap, or that requires excessive force to close and lock.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Hinges worn or dropped causing misalignment
- 2Frame swollen or warped from moisture
- 3Locking mechanism or espagnolette bar jammed
How Urgent Is This?
This should be fixed in the coming weeks. Leaving it may allow the problem to worsen and cost more to repair.
What Needs to Be Done
A window fitter will adjust or replace the hinges, realign the sash, and repair the locking mechanism so the window closes and locks securely.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £173 – £425 | Materials: £663 – £2,200
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Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Ask a QuestionHow to Prevent This
Lubricate hinges and locks annually. Open and close windows regularly even in unused rooms. Report stiffness early before it worsens.
Related Problems
Cold air blowing in around a closed and locked window, making the room feel cold near the window.
A window handle that has snapped, come loose, or no longer engages the locking mechanism.
The rubber seals around windows have hardened, cracked, or fallen away, letting in draughts and rain.
Other Window Fitter Problems
Misting or fogging between the two panes of a double-glazed unit, which cannot be wiped away.
Cold air blowing in around a closed and locked window, making the room feel cold near the window.
A window handle that has snapped, come loose, or no longer engages the locking mechanism.
A crack running through a window pane, which may be from an impact or have appeared without obvious cause.