9 Common Sliding Window Problems and How to Fix Them
Sliding windows are popular all over Singapore due to their ease of use, flawless operation, aesthetics and also airflow and the natural light they let in your room. But, like every other window, they can also develop some issues that could significantly affect their performance, efficiency, and usability.
To help you maintain your windows and ensure that they’re working fine, let’s discuss 9 common sliding window problems and how to fix them. Window Grill Singapore explains the common sliding window problems in Singapore. Moreover, they offer professional services in Aluminium window grills, invisible window grills, and metal\iron gates in Singapore.
Common Sliding Window Problems and How to Fix Them
Below are the common sliding window problems and how to fix them so that it keeps working for you smoothly.
1. Stuck Sliding Window
You’re trying hard, but the window isn’t sliding so smoothly. You’re having to put extra pressure that is making you tired.
That’s a stuck sliding window that is usually caused by the built-up dirt, debris, or rust in the track. When you frequently use the door without maintaining it, the sliding gets less smooth.
How to fix it?
- Clean the tracks thoroughly
- Lubricate the tracks with silicone spray
- Tighten or adjust rollers if needed
- Replace damaged rollers
2. Drafts and Air Leaks
You’ve closed the window to avoid getting in the cold air or the pollution. But guess what, you’re still getting the air, and you don’t know why. That’s usually because of the leaking drafts and the air.
Usually, the worn-out weatherstripping or the gaps around the frame cause the leakage that may make your place uncomfortable, especially in the winter season.
How to fix it?
- Replace old weatherstripping
- Apply caulk around the window frame
- Check the alignment of the window
- Use draft stoppers if necessary
3. Broken Locks or Latches
Due to hard pushing the lock or simply not frequently maintaining it, it may break. A broken lock could be dangerous as it can lock in any elder or the kid, get jammed when in an emergency, or cause privacy risks as well.
How to fix it?
- Tighten screws on loose locks
- Replace damaged latches
- Lubricate the lock mechanism
- Install a new locking system
4. Noisy Sliding Window
Every time you open or close the window by sliding, there’s a lot of sliding noise. It’s annoying and disturbs you and your guests. Just like the stuck sliding window, this issue is also caused by the dirt built up, and also the dry rollers or misaligned components.
These components rub together and then produce these kinds of agitating sounds that make your head hurt.
How to fix it?
- Clean the window track
- Lubricate rollers and moving parts
- Check for misaligned panels
- Replace worn-out rollers
5. Water Leakage
The window is closed, but you can still see some water coming from it into the room. That’s the water leakage issue with the sliding window.
It can happen due to poor sealing, clogged weep holes, mould, and also the damaged tracks that could lead to wood to rot and cause leakage.
How to fix it?
- Clear blocked weep holes
- Reseal with waterproof silicone
- Realign the window for tight closure
- Replace cracked panes or frames
6. Foggy Glass (Condensation Between Panes)
After constantly using the window without cleaning it, it becomes foggy and blurry, making it difficult to see clearly either inside or outside. When the seal between the double-glazed panels falls, this is the issue that arises.
Because then the moisture gets in and makes the window blurry. It’s not only bad looking , but also it affects the insulation and makes the glass less effective.
How to fix it?
- Use a defogging kit
- Reseal the window unit
- Replace the glass unit if seal is broken
- Consider installing new insulated glass
7. Misaligned Window Panels
When the sliding window doesn’t slide straight or it’s jammed, drafts or poor leaking, then it means the panels are misaligned. It can happen due to the foundation shifts, improper installation, and also track wear and tear.
How to fix it?
- Adjust roller height
- Realign the window in the track
- Tighten track screws
- Replace worn track guides
8. Difficulty Locking the Window
You closed the window and tried to lock it, but the lock wasn’t catching up. That’s usually when the window is out of alignment or the lock mechanism is slightly bent. It’s frustrating and also unsafe for your home.
How to fix it?
- Check window alignment
- Adjust the latch position
- Tighten or replace the locking mechanism
- Lubricate the latch for smoother operation
9. Cracked or Chipped Glass
If you end up breaking or chipping the glass, then you should try to solve this issue, as the small chip can spread faster on the glass. Whether the issue is caused by excessive pressure from the frame or by an accident, it needs to be fixed immediately to avoid further damage.
How to fix it?
- Apply clear tape for a temporary hold
- Measure and order replacement glass
- Carefully remove broken glass
- Install the new pane securely
Final Words
Sliding windows are unique, stylish, and also easy to operate. But like every other window type, they can also develop some issues over time. The common sliding window issues include: stuck tracks, air drafts, broken locks, noisy movement, water leaks, foggy glass, misaligned panels, lock issues, and cracked glass.
How to fix them? To fix these issues, clean tracks, seal gaps, fix locks, oil parts, clear drains, defog glass, realign panels, adjust the latch, and replace glass. These are the common sliding window problems and how to fix them.