Window problems can be a huge inconvenience. If you’re having trouble opening or closing your windows, it’s important to troubleshoot the problem and find a solution.
In this blog post, we will discuss four common reasons why windows might not open or close. We will provide tips on how to fix each issue, so you can get your windows working properly again!
Why Are Windows That Won’t Close (or Open) a Big Deal?
Windows that won’t close can be a major inconvenience. If the weather is hot or cold, you’ll want to have your windows closed so you can maintain your home’s temperature.
Some of the biggest problems of letting a window sit broken include:
- Larger energy bills
- Unable to control the temperature of your home
- Water damage from the rain can get inside and cause damage like mold or rot wood window cills.
- Security issues that can allow people to break in easier
- Bugs and other animals can get into your home easier
This is why it’s important to fix any window issues as soon as possible.
Some window problems can be fixed easily with a little elbow grease and some determination. Others will require the help of a professional window installer.
Below, we will discuss four common reasons why windows might not close, and how you can fix each issue.
Window Cranks Won’t Turn
Window cranks are a common feature of casement windows. Window crank handles often stop working when the gears in them wear out or break.
When this happens, you will not be able to turn the window crank with enough force to open or close your window. Window cranks can also get stuck if they have become dirty over time because dirt and dust build up inside which prevents smooth operation.
If your window crank is not turning, it’s important that you first check for any obstructions like paint buildup before replacing its entire mechanism altogether – removing these types of obstructions may fix this problem immediately!
Window Track Needs to Be Cleaned
Window tracks collect dirt and debris over time, which can make it difficult to open or close the window.
Window frames don’t always seal completely against drafts either, so dust and pollen can also find their way into your home through cracks in weatherstripping around windowsills.
It’s important you clean your window track regularly, to prevent the buildup of dirt. Window tracks should be cleaned with warm water and a mild detergent every other month or so.
If you don’t clean them often enough, then they’ll start accumulating dirt faster than normal – which will make it harder for windows to open and close.
Make sure you add some lubricant to your window tracks as well after cleaning them, to help keep them moving smoothly.
Paint Starts To Build Up on the Window Sill
Window sills are commonplace for paint to start building up over time. Window painters often don’t clean the window sill thoroughly enough, which can cause the paint to harden and become difficult to remove.
Paint buildup on your window sill will make it harder for you to open or close your window because there won’t be as much of a surface area that makes contact with the window frame. It will also make it more difficult to properly weatherstrip your windows, which could lead to water damage in extreme cases.
If you have paint buildup on your window sill, you should try using a heat gun or hair dryer to soften the paint so that it’s easier to scrape off. You can also use a putty knife or razor blade to remove some of the paint buildup if necessary. Window sills need periodic scraping, sanding down, and repainting every few years in order to ensure proper function with their windowsill’s frame.
Window Track Needs Repair
Window tracks can also become damaged due to general wear and tear.
Window tracks should be checked regularly for signs of wear such as rust or broken parts that may prevent your window from opening and closing properly. Trying to open or close a window with a broken track can lead to further damage of the window if you are trying to pull it open or closed with the track not working.
Window tracks can usually be repaired if they are not too severely rusted or damaged beyond repair (which is rare), but they will need replacement parts like bolts, nuts, washers etc which may require some disassembly before installation can begin.
Window track repairs should only ever be attempted by a qualified window technician because even small mistakes during the process could result in more severe issues for homeowners down the road.
Have the Experts at Simpson Windows & Doors Help
Window issues can be easily resolved with a little bit of knowledge and the right tools. If you need help opening or closing your window, we are here for you!
Simpson Windows & Doors can get your windows back to full working condition.
Our free in-home consultations give our professionals the ability to assess the situation at no cost and provide an estimate on what it would take to fix it or possibly replace the window.
With over 25 years of experience in the Window and Door industry, our team of experts can help you get your window working like new again.