Sliding window Philippines are widely preferred because they are space-saving, easy to use, and can improve natural ventilation. Nonetheless, if you want sliding windows to serve you well for long, you have to maintain them regularly. If the sliding windows do not open and close smoothly, it is either because of inadequate lubrication or wear or tear. The article will explicitly show you how to lubricate sliding window’s moving parts.
Understanding the Components
Before you start adding the oil, ensure you know the parts of a sliding window that need oiling. These include:
Tracks and Rails
The window sash moves along tracks and rails. Dirt and debris accumulating in these places may lead to operated friction and difficulty.
Rollers and Wheels
The window sash has rollers and wheels at the bottom which makes it move smoothly on a straight line. These items can be completely soiled or damaged due to continuous usage.
Locks and Latches
When the window is closed, locks and latches hold it. The right lubrication also helps these components work properly.
Gathering the Necessary Supplies
To lubricate the mobile parts of your sliding windows, you will require the following items, a Vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, soft cloth or rags, mild detergent or window cleaner, silicone-based spray lubricant, a small brush, and a screwdriver.
Cleaning the Tracks and Rails
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
The first step involves opening the slide window fully. To eliminate tracks and rails from loose dirt, dust, or debris, utilize vacuum cleaners equipped with brush attachments. Otherwise, the lubricant will accumulate granular texture due to the dirt that mixes with it thereby causing extensive damage in the end.
Step 2: Wipe Down the Tracks
Wet a piece of cloth or rag with a mild detergent or window cleaner. Clean the tracks and rails completely to get rid of any dirt or mud that may still be there. Where needed, use a small brush to carefully scrub away unwashed dirt, sweat. Or soap. Before you move to the next point, ensure that they are completely dry.
Lubricating the Tracks and Rails
Step 1: Choose the Right Lubricant
Choose between a silicone-based spray lubricant or a dry Teflon spray for your sliding windows. For this application, these types of lubricants are excellent because they do not attract dirt and dust and can provide smooth operation.
Step 2: Apply the Lubricant
Hold the can of lubricant about 6 inches away from the tracks and spray a light, even coat along the entire length of the tracks. Refrain from spraying excessively since too much lubricant can quickly attract dirt and grime. Utilize soft cloth to clean up any surplus oil obtained.
Step 3: Operate the Window
Open and close the window a few times after lubrication to spread the lubricant over the truck so that it will have smooth movement.
Cleaning and Lubricating the Rollers and Wheels
Step 1: Access the Rollers
In case your sliding window has removable sashes, simply utilize a screwdriver for separating the sash from the frame after which you will find it easier to reach the rollers and wheels. However, if the sashes cannot be moved from their current position, you would still be able to wash as well as apply grease on these parts without any difficulty.
Step 2: Clean the Rollers
Use a vacuum with a brush nozzle to get rid of all loose dirt from the pulleys and wheels. After that, dampen a cloth with a mild soap solution or glass cleaner and rub down on the pulleys to eliminate any formed dirt. Make sure that the pulleys are dry before applying lubricant.
Step 3: Lubricate the Rollers
Use either a tiny amount of silicone-based liquid or the Teflon spray that is dry on rollers and wheels. Rotate the rollers for the even distribution of the lubricant. After that, wipe off any additional lubricant using a soft cloth.
Step 4: Reassemble the Window
Once the sash is removed, make sure to insert it with care so that it surely fits in the frame. Check for smooth operation by opening and closing the window multiple times.
Lubricating Locks and Latches
Step 1: Clean the Locks and Latches
To wipe down the latches and locks, you can use a soft cloth that is a bit wet with soap or a window cleaner. Soil and dust that may affect their operation will be eliminated by doing this.
Step 2: Apply Lubricant
Use some silicone-based lubricant or dry Teflon spray on the moving parts of the locks and latches. Move them around a few times until the lubricant is spread evenly.
Regular Maintenance Tips
Regular Cleaning
Do regular cleaning of the tracks, rollers, as well as locks to keep the sliding windows working properly. Consequently, friction and harm caused by dirt and debris accumulation can be avoided.
Inspect for Wear and Tear
After every three months, check the sliding window parts and get rid of those that are broken. To make sure it serves you well, always replace anything that is not working properly.
Reapply Lubricant as Needed
To maintain their friction, you may have to apply lubricant at least once every three months subject to weather and usage conditions. If the windows are hard to move, then realize that it is already a sign that it needs some oiling.
Key Takeaway
To clean and lubricate the tracks, rollers, and locks effectively of your sliding windows, you can follow the above-given procedures, which can ensure the smooth operation of your windows and prolong their lifetime by simply lubricating moving parts. Regular maintenance improves the function of your windows, the usage of energy, and the general atmosphere in your space.