How to repair windows that stick or won’t close and/or lock properly
We all want our windows closing and locking properly. Windows that won’t close properly increase energy costs both in the hot and cold seasons. They also increase the risk of burglary and are just annoying to have around. There are easy solutions to these types of windows depending on the cause of the problem.
Reasons why windows won’t close and their solutions.
The top window isn’t closed
This is a common problem for vertical sliding windows. Sometimes you’ll notice that the bottom window even though locked, still slides up and down when you try and open it. In most cases the reason is that the top section has not been fully closed.
To solve this simply ensure that the top section is closed all the way. Now close the bottom part, lock it and try and open it. If this was your problem, the window should stay firmly closed.
You are shutting the window while it is locked
This is common where you do not know which side locks and which side unlocks the window. When you shut the window while locked, the keeper and the lock will not line properly. Thus no matter how much you try, the window will still remain open.
The solution to this problem is easy. All you need to do is get familiar with the lock to know which side locks and which side opens. To do this, you’ll need to tilt out the lower window so that you can observe the lock. Then push back the window into place and while the lock is open close both the bottom and the top windows shut. Then shut the lock and check whether the problem is still there.
This problem is common when you’ve recently changed your windows and have not become familiar with them.
The keeper needs adjustment
Another problem causing windows to not lock properly is a keeper that is not properly aligned to the lock. The keeper is the part that your lock hooks into when you lock it. When the two are not properly aligned, the window will definitely not close properly.
Some keepers are adjustable and have screws on them. Slant out the bottom window panel so that you can see the keeper properly. Then unscrew it and move it back and forth while checking with the lock to have it at the right place. Have it perfectly centered with the lock and then tighten back the screws and your problem will be solved.
The channels on the side of the window could be blocked
Slide up your window and check the channels on the side for any blockages. It could be dirt blocking the channels and causing the window not to close. Clean these channels of any dirt, dust and particles.
Problems with the interlocks
The interlocks between the top and bottom panel could also cause the windows to not shut properly. There is a lip on the bottom panel that locks onto a lip on the top panel. Sometimes they crash when one lip is bent out of shape so that it cannot hook into the other lip.
When you pull out the bottom section, you will be able to observe the interlocks and see if there is a problem. If there is, first push back the bottom sash into place. Then push it up like you are opening the window about two inches. Next you’ll press the panel in and while pressing it, push back the window down. This should work to close the window properly.
For a window with this problem, you’ll need to leave it closed for a few days before opening it. This will allow the interlocks to take that aligned form and you won’t have a problem afterwards.
Thus it is not difficult to repair these types of windows at all. Most people find that the first and second solutions solve problems that have existed for a long time. Try these out before calling the window repair company. You might just save yourself some cash.
