How To Properly Open & Close Windows
Your home’s windows serve a few important purposes—they allow sunlight to enter, protect against inclement weather, and allow you to air your home out when needed. For windows to serve these functions effectively, they need to be easy to open and close, and they need to provide a proper seal against moisture. If you’ve had new windows installed in your New England home and you want to ensure they provide decades of reliable and effortless performance, it’s important that you can open and close them properly at all times. Being able to properly ventilate your home is especially important in New England, as there are several months every year when you can open your windows and turn off your HVAC system to save significantly on energy costs.
How Do Different Window Styles Operate?
You may be surprised by how many different styles of windows are available these days. There’s an option for every functional need and aesthetic preference, and some have unique operation methods. Here’s a guide to how some of the most popular window styles open and close:
Awning
Awning windows are popular for hard-to-reach areas above sinks and bathtubs because they’re simple to operate. They’re also popular for basements, as they can stay open during light rain. Opening and closing awning windows is relatively easy, as they’re hinged at the top and can either be pushed open or opened using a hand crank.
Double-Hung
Double-hung windows are probably the most popular style on the market, and they can provide excellent ventilation when open. They feature a lower and upper sash, and the lower sash can be unlocked and lifted. If you want even better airflow, the upper sash can also be opened by pushing it down.
Casement
Casement windows are similar to awning windows in that they’re attached on one side and can either be pushed open or operated with a hand crank. They’re often used in bay or bow window configurations.
Picture
Picture windows provide excellent views of the outdoors because they don’t have a sash. However, this also means they’re fixed and can’t be opened.
Single-Hung
Single-hung windows look similar to double-hung but can only be opened by lifting the lower sash. The upper sash remains fixed.
Sliding
Sliding windows are a smaller version of sliding doors, as they run on a track and are pushed by hand to open and close.
Why Are My Windows Hard to Open & Close?
As windows get older, especially if they’re not properly cared for, they can become difficult to operate. In addition to regular wear and tear, several factors can make windows hard to open and close, including:
- Broken springs, cords, or balances that help the sashes operate properly
- Frames that have been damaged by rot, termites, woodpeckers, or moisture
- A shifting home foundation that has impacted walls and floors
- Poor installation techniques that allow moisture to get in the windows and damage the frames
Not surprisingly, improper care is the No. 1 reason windows can become difficult to open and close. When you have new windows installed in your home, you’ll need to make sure that dirt and grime are kept out of the tracks so they don’t affect the mechanisms. You may also need to lubricate window sashes that move up and down or side to side on tracks.
If your windows have become tough to operate, you may be able to fix the issues by making minor adjustments or by cleaning and lubricating them. If the issues persist, it might be time to contact a window installation contractor.
Offering High-Performance Replacement Windows
Since 1945, NEWPRO has been the window installation company of choice for homeowners throughout New England. In addition to our unmatched level of experience, one of the reasons we stand above our competitors is our impressive product selection. We offer:
- EcoMAX windows – Our more budget-conscious customers can choose these windows, which feature an insulated glass package and HeatSeal Spacers.
- SuperMAX windows – Our flagship replacement windows offer exceptional energy efficiency thanks to triple-pane glass with two Low E coats and argon gas fills.
- UltraMAX windows – Our top-of-the-line windows feature best-in-class, triple-pane glass packages with blended argon and krypton gas fills, double Low E glass coatings, HeatSeal Spacers, and other components that add to their durability and thermal performance.
Are You Ready to Schedule a Window Inspection?
You don’t have to deal with windows that won’t operate properly and are raising your monthly energy costs. Contact NEWPRO today and we’ll schedule a time to visit your New England home to inspect your windows and tell you more about our high-performance products.
