Why Are My Vinyl Windows Sticking?

Window Hardware

• Some vinyl window designs use moving parts such as track wheels to help the windows move smoothly on the tracks inside the sash. Those track wheels require maintenance at least once a year that consists of cleaning with compressed air to remove debris and applying a small amount of oil to keep the wheels moving. If your vinyl windows are not opening, then take them out of the track to see if the window track wheels are moving properly.

Warped Panels

• Vinyl window panels can warp in the same manner as wooden panels, but vinyl panels warp normally because of faulty manufacturing. It does not take much of a warp in window panels to make it impossible for the windows to move. You can pull the panels out of the tracks and check them to see if they are warped. If your windows are still under warranty, contact the manufacturer to see about getting new panels.

Wood Frame

• One way that some people try to save money on installing windows is to put vinyl window panels in existing wooden frames. Wood expands and contracts as the weather changes. If you installed vinyl window panels that are tight inside a wood frame, then the vinyl panels will not move if the wood frame expands with the change in the weather. Wooden window frames also require a protective coating of paint that can sometimes stick to vinyl window panels.

Debris

• If you open your vinyl windows, it is possible that debris can start to accumulate in the window tracks. Over time, this debris can start to make it difficult to open and close your windows. The solution is to do a thorough cleaning of your vinyl windows, including the tracks, at least once each year.