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Aluminium Sliding Windows Sticking? How To Fix Them

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Aluminium sliding windows are a great choice for your home. They're easy to maintain, as well as being durable and long-lasting. However, from time-to-time you may find that the windows stick, meaning that you find yourself struggling to persuade them to open.

In most cases you will be able to fix the problem quite quickly and simply yourself, without having to call out a handyman. Here are some tips on how to unstick sticking aluminium sliding windows.

Identify the Cause of the Problem

There are generally two causes of sticking aluminium sliding windows:

  • damaged tracks
  • poor lubrication of the tracks

Have a good look at the window tracks to see if there is any obvious warping or dents on the window frames or tracks. Although you could attempt to straighten out the tracks yourself, you may be best advised to ask a qualified contractor to do this as you could just make the problem worse if you take the DIY route.

If the window frames and tracks appear to be undamaged, you can solve the problem yourself by following this procedure.

What You Will Need

  • washing-up liquid
  • a bucket
  • old tooth brush
  • cloths
  • graphite lubrication
  • light oil

You can obtain everything you need for this project from good DIY or hardware stores.

How to Do It

  1. First of all, make up a mild solution of washing-up liquid and warm water. Soak a clean cloth in the solution and use it to wipe down the tracks and frames.  
  2. Use an old toothbrush to thoroughly scrub the window tracks to shift any build-up of dirt and grime.  
  3. Take a fresh, clean cloth and soak it in clean water. Use the cloth to wipe away any dirty, soapy water.  
  4. Dry the frames and tracks thoroughly with a clean cloth.  
  5. Now apply a dry graphite lubricant product to the tracks everywhere where there is metal-to-metal contact. Unlike oily lubricant, graphite won't draw dust and dirt, keeping the tracks clean and well-lubricated for longer.  
  6. Next, apply a few drops of light oil to the window hinges.  
  7. On window styles where the window is pulled inwards onto sliding tracks after you close it, apply dry graphite lubricant to prevent the window from sticking when it is opened or closed.

You can fix sticking aluminium sliding windows and keep them free for longer by following the above guidelines. If your window frames or tracks appear to be damaged, ask an expert to repair them for you.  


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