How to Make Aluminum Sash Windows Slide

Sash windows consist of two glass panes arranged vertically. Some sash window designs feature one movable pane, while both panes of other designs are movable. Traditionally, sash windows featured wood frames, but modern designs instead use aluminum for their durability and resistance to swelling in wet weather. Over time, the window tracts tend to accumulate dirt and grime that can cause the windows to stick. A poor painting job can also prevent the windows from sliding if paint has dried over the seams. Fortunately, restoring the sliding feature of sash windows is generally a straightforward job.

Paint zipper
Wood block
Hammer
Soft-bristled brush
Hand vacuum
Rag
Petroleum-based lubricant

Instructions

- 1
  Cut through any paint that has dried between the window sashes and the window stops with a paint zipper. Take care when tracing the edge of the sashes not to inadvertently chip the paint on the stop and sash. On occasion, the horizontal seam between the front and rear sashes will also be sealed with paint. Score this seam with the paint zipper if necessary.
- 2
  Position a wood block against the window sash and tap the block gently with a hammer until you can open the window. Use the block along the entire length of both window sashes. The wood block is necessary to prevent damaging the soft aluminum.
- 3
  Scrub the window tracks with a soft-bristled brush, such as a toothbrush, to remove dirt and debris.
- 4
  Vacuum the tracks with a hand vacuum and wipe the tracks down with a damp rag, then allow the tracts to dry.
- 5
  Apply a coat of petroleum-based lubricant to the entire length of the window tracks. Do not use beeswax or paraffin wax here, as those products are better suited for wooden rather than aluminum window frames.

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