Advice needed

[Aurelio]

Hi,

I’m seeking advice with how best to deal with this problem above the window in my bedroom. The area seems to be bubbling and a few small cracks, the window latch won’t open now too so I don’t know if the this is both related. I’m not looking to replace the windows yet but I’m concerned about the risk of damp, entering the property. Is this anything to worry about or should I just leave it?

Many thanks

 

[Cubist]

It would be helpful to know if the damage is to the woodwork surrounding the window frame or the plaster. If woodwork then this may be due to wood swelling after getting wet and may be associated with rainwater driven agains the walls outside. If the window frame is also made of wood it too might be swelling due to moisture penetration thus causing the latches and catches to become tight and stiff to operate.

 

[Aurelio]

Thanks for getting back to me. We had the pebbledash from the front of our house removed last year and the brickwork repaired and repointed in lime mortar. The underlying brickwork was quite damp before they repaired and repointed. The windows are UPVC, we are looking to redecorate this room in a few years time. The question is should I leave this as is and just try and repair the latch or is it likely to require further investigation or do I need to do something with the plaster?

Thanks

 

[Cubist]

If the latch is in the UPVC frame then a little adjustment may be the only course of action and would not be caused by swelling of the timbers. Regarding the damaged plaster that can be easily repaired/replaced to a smooth finish internally.