Window Repair in Warsaw — Hardware, Mechanism and Glass Unit Replacement
The handle is loose or broken off, the sash is stuck in a strange position, there is a draught even after adjustment, the glass unit is cracked — none of that means you need a whole new window. In 80 % of cases, the fix comes down to replacing one or two hardware parts, and the window keeps going for another 10–15 years. We repair uPVC and timber windows all over Warsaw: handles, hinges, locking mechanisms, scissors, glass units. If the window itself is still in good shape, repair costs far less than replacement.
Window repair costs and what affects the price
The cost depends on what exactly is damaged. The cheapest job is a basic handle replacement. Changing the tilt-and-turn mechanism or a hinge costs more because the sash has to be removed. Replacing a glass unit is the priciest repair, but it is still less expensive than fitting a brand-new window. The price covers diagnostics and labour. Parts are billed separately, but we bring them with us so the job can be finished in one visit. Current prices below.
| Service | min | max |
|---|---|---|
| Window repair | 150 zł | 400 zł |
| Window adjustment | 30 zł | 60 zł |
| Window sealing | 25 zł/mb | 40 zł/mb |
Take a photo of the problem and send it over — the technician will give you a repair estimate before coming out (compatible with Porta, VOX, Erkado and similar).
How window repair works: step by step
Repair is not just adjustment. In this case the technician takes the window apart, changes the faulty parts and puts everything back together:
- Diagnostics. The technician checks the window and finds the failed part: handle, hinge, espagnolette lock, scissors, seal or glass unit. He also looks for hidden damage — frame cracks, profile distortion.
- Identifying parts. Every hardware manufacturer (Roto, Maco, Siegenia, Winkhaus) has its own dimensions and fixings. The technician identifies the brand and picks matching parts. He often carries the main spares with him.
- Removing the damaged component. The sash is taken off the hinges or set in the service position. Decorative caps are removed, fixings are unscrewed, and the broken part is taken out. For a glass-unit replacement the glazing beads are removed.
- Fitting the new part. The new mechanism, hinge or handle is fitted and fixed in place. For a glass-unit replacement the new unit is put in, secured with beads and checked for a proper seal.
- Reassembly and adjustment. The sash is hung back on, the hinges and clamping pressure are adjusted. Every mode is tested: turn, tilt, micro-ventilation. The mechanisms are lubricated.
- Final check. The window is opened and closed several times in every mode. The handle should move smoothly, the sash should shut without force, and the pressure should be even all the way round.
Common mistakes when repairing windows
DIY window repair often makes the problem worse:
- Ignoring minor issues. The handle is a bit loose — no big deal, you will sort it later. Six months later the mechanism fails completely and the repair costs three times more.
- Fitting the wrong parts. A market-bought handle looks identical but has the wrong spindle length. The mechanism starts jamming and the mounting socket gets damaged.
- Forcing a jammed sash. The sash is stuck between tilt and turn — so you pull hard on it. Result: bent scissors, ripped-out hinges, a warped frame.
- Replacing a glass unit without experience. Glazing beads have to come off in a set order and with the proper tool. If done wrong, they crack or bend — and then those need replacing as well.
- Using WD-40 instead of silicone lubricant. WD-40 is a solvent, not a lubricant. It strips out the factory grease, and a month later everything starts binding even more.
- Postponing repair of a cracked glass unit. A crack breaks the hermetic seal. Moisture shows up between the panes and thermal insulation drops. The longer it is left, the worse it becomes.
What to prepare before the technician arrives
A few simple things will make the repair faster and help the technician:
- Take a close-up photo of the problem — the handle, hinge, crack or sash position.
- If you know the window or hardware brand, let the technician know. There is often a sticker on the profile or an engraving on the hardware.
- Clear the windowsill and the space around the window.
- If the sash is jammed, do not try to force it open. Leave it as it is.
- Move breakable items away from the window — removing a sash needs room.
- Check all windows in the flat — some of the others may need attention as well.
- Have the entry code and parking details ready.
- If the glass unit is cracked, tape the crack on both sides so fragments do not fall out.
- Keep pets in another room.
- Keep in mind: if a rare part is required the technician may need to come twice — once for diagnostics, once for repair.
A real case: repairing a jammed window in Praga
A call came in from Praga Poludnie: the sash of a large bedroom window had jammed — it would neither close nor tilt and was hanging crooked. The owner had tried to push it shut by force, which made the problem worse. After inspection we found that the mis-handling lock had engaged, and then the attempt to force it closed had bent the upper-hinge scissors. The sash had literally dropped out of the upper fixing.
We removed the sash carefully, replaced the scissors with new ones (Maco original), rehung the sash, adjusted the upper and lower hinges and lubricated all mechanisms. We checked the mis-handling lock — it was working properly. We also showed the client what to do if the sash gets stuck in double-open mode again: press the lock on the sash edge and turn the handle to the closed position. The whole repair took about 40 minutes.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a window repair take?
Replacing a handle — 10 minutes. Replacing a hinge or scissors — 30–60 minutes. Replacing a glass unit — 40–90 minutes. If a non-standard part has to be ordered, the repair is carried out in two visits.
Is it worth repairing an old window or better to replace it?
If the profile is not warped, the frame is intact and the glass unit is energy-efficient, repair is plainly the better choice. Replacing hardware costs 5–10 times less than buying a new window. Replacement only makes sense if the profile has lost its seal or the window has a single-pane unit that does not keep heat in.
Can you repair a window of any brand?
Yes. We work with all major hardware brands: Roto, Maco, Siegenia, Winkhaus, GU, Axor. For rare systems we find compatible alternatives.
What should I do if the glass unit is cracked?
Tape the crack and call a technician. The glass unit is replaced without taking out the frame — the glazing beads are removed, the old unit is lifted out and the new one is fitted. Measurements are taken on site; manufacturing takes 2–5 working days.
The sash is stuck between tilt and turn — what should I do?
This is double-opening — a common problem. Do not yank the sash by force. Find the mis-handling lock on the sash edge (a metal tongue or button), press it and turn the handle to the closed position. If that does not help, call a technician so the scissors do not get damaged.
Who does the repair and what guarantees we offer
Repairs are done by technicians with hands-on experience in window hardware and glass units. We know Roto, Maco, Siegenia, Winkhaus and GU systems inside out — which parts can be swapped between systems, where originals are a must, which dimensions matter. We carry the main spare parts with us so the repair can be finished in one visit. We work across all of Warsaw — from Ursynow to Bielany. All installed parts and labour are covered by warranty. If the issue comes back, we return and sort it out. Call or message us with a description of the problem — we usually reply within an hour.