4 Tips for Maintaining Sliding Windows in Your Dayton Home

Sliding windows are the perfect choice for window openings that are wider than they are tall. They work wonderfully along patios, walkways, and decks, and their simple open–close mechanisms are durable and long-lasting. Sliding windows really don’t require a lot of maintenance, especially when the glass is bordered by a durable, rot-resistant material like Fibrex®. However, it is important to keep your windows clean and lubricated to prevent future issues. Follow these simple tips to keep every sliding window in your Dayton home in tip-top shape.

1) Vacuum the bottom sliding window track

Dust and grime have the tendency to accumulate in the bottom track of the sliding window. Over time, this grime can make it harder to open and close the window since it increases the level of friction between the sash and the track. Grime may also scratch the edge of the window sash and make your windows look a bit dingy overall.

The easiest way to keep grime under control is to get in the habit of vacuuming the track on a regular basis. Make it a part of your routine whenever you vacuum the carpet in your Dayton home. Pop on your vacuum’s wand attachment, and run it along the window track while the window is open. Then, slide the window to the opposite side and vacuum the other side of the track.

2) Use silicone spray to lubricate the sliding window track

Keeping the tracks lubricated will ensure the window keeps sliding smoothly. Avoid heavy, oil-based lubricants like WD-40, as they can make a mess. Opt instead for a silicone-based lubricant. Spray just a little bit along the bottom window track every couple of months or whenever you notice the window is getting harder to slide.

3) Use soap and a squeegee to clean the window glass

This tip really applies to any type of window, but it’s even more useful for sliding windows since they tend to be in busy areas, like patios, where everyone notices if they’re streaky or not quite clean. Instead of using traditional window cleaner and paper towels to clean your windows, reach for a pail of soapy water, a window sponge, and a squeegee. Lather up your soapy water (dish soap works fine), scrub the window, and then use the squeegee to remove the sudsy, dirty water. Wipe the squeegee clean after each stroke for best results. This window cleaning method won’t leave streaks or swirls.

4) Carefully inspect the windows once a year

About once a year, look over your windows carefully to identify any issues. Look for:

• Wheels that have begun to bow or come loose
• Nicks or dents in the tracks
• Separation of the sash from the frame

If you notice any of these issues, contact your window installation company immediately. The windows may be under warranty, and even if they are not, fixing problems early on is a lot easier than letting them get worse and then having to replace the entire window.

If your sliding windows are becoming hard to open and close or are showing other signs of wear, contact Renewal by Andersen to learn more about replacement windows for your Dayton home. We offer free, in-home consultations with estimates that are good for one year, and we offer one of the best warranties in the industry: 20-years on glass, 10 on installation, and 10 on components other than glass.