the homeowner's guide to sliding windows

The Homeowner’s Guide to Sliding Windows


PART 1A Closer Look at Sliding Windows

Sliding windows score a lot of points if you’re after practicality, reliability and functionality, so it isn’t surprising that they’re among the most popular window replacement options for homeowners today. Let’s take a closer look at them to see why.


A Closer Look at Sliding Windows

WHAT IS A SLIDING WINDOW?A sliding (or gliding) window is exactly what it says on the tin: a window that slides. It is a type of window that has at least two sashes, at least one of which can be slid horizontally to open and close the window. The sliding sash or sashes move along a specially made track within the window frame.

PARTS OF A SLIDING WINDOWLike most operable types of windows, a sliding window has a frame, sashes, glass, handles and locks. The frame, which is the window’s primary support structure, can be further broken down into jambs, a head and a sill. Each sash, on the other hand, can be broken down into stiles and rails. Below is a diagram showing the basic parts of a sliding window:

head top rails

bottom rails

stile

handle

jambjamb

frame sill

lock

stile


A Closer Look at Sliding Windows

Sliding windows can have a combination of fixed (stationary) and operating sashes or purely operating sashes. They can also feature grilles, gas fills, spacers, weatherstripping, insect screens and other components designed to improve their function and/or aesthetics.

HOW A SLIDING WINDOW OPERATESThe key to sliding window operation is a track system that allows the sashes to move from side to side instead of projecting inwards or outwards. The system consists of upper and lower track strips that fit around the top and bottom edges of the sashes. These edges have sash rollers to facilitate smooth gliding.

Many modern sliding window designs have the upper guide track deeper than the lower one for easier sash removal during cleaning. Drainage holes are also incorporated into some designs to prevent rainwater from accumulating in the lower guide track.


PART 2Benefits of Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are among the most popular types of windows available in the market today, and with good reason. Part One of this e-book introduced us to what they are, what they’re made of and how they operate. In this section, we’ll talk about the different features that make them a great choice for window replacements.


Benefits of Sliding Windows

EASY MAINTENANCENo homeowner wants a high-maintenance window. This is one of the key benefits of sliding windows: for operable systems, they have relatively few moving components and none that work against the pull of gravity. This lowers the risk of mechanical complications and premature window failure.

SIMPLE OPERATIONOperating a sliding window is a simple affair: just unlock, release the latch and let the movable sash slide open from one side to the other. To close the window, just slide the sash back to its original position and lock. Operation can be done one-handed, making sliding windows a good choice for tight spots.

GENEROUS DAYLIGHTINGSliding windows use more glass and less frame, which means you can enjoy generous amounts of natural light during daytime. They in fact allow for the biggest glass area among individually-installed operable windows.


Benefits of Sliding Windows

VERSATILITYBecause sliding windows do not project inward or outward when open, installing accessories like insect screens and window treatments is a simple matter.

SPACE SAVINGSProjecting windows like casements and awnings aren’t the best choice near walkways, decks or patios because they can interfere with foot traffic and/or present a safety hazard. Sliding windows are a perfect option for these awkward spaces if you need an operable window that remains flush with the wall even when open.

COST-EFFECTIVENESSThanks to their simple design and low main-tenance requirements, sliding windows are among the most cost-effective window options both upfront and long-term.


PART 3How to Care for Sliding Windows

Whatever types of windows you have installed in your home, they all need a certain amount of TLC to stay in good shape for a long time. Just like any part of your home, windows need a combination of regular preventive maintenance and reactive maintenance.


How to Care for Sliding Windows

Preventive maintenance mainly involves cleaning your windows according to manufacturer instruc-tions, keeping an eye out for signs of damage and scheduling maintenance checks with a trusted contractor. Reactive maintenance, on the other hand, is about having a professional fix window problems before they have a chance to get worse.

GENERAL TIPS

#1 KEEP THOSE WHEELS ROLLINGOperating sashes can get stuck in their tracks if the rollers are poorly maintained. Lubricate the rollers every once in a while using a silicone-based lubricant or any manufacturer-approved product and spin them until they start to roll smoothly.

#2 VACUUM UP THE TRACKThe tracks on which a sliding window’s rollers turn can accumulate dust and dirt, resulting in stuck sashes and/or scratches in the points of contact. The best thing to do is use a vacuum with a flat nozzle to suck up any grit lodged in the track. Stubborn dirt can be loosened with the help of an old toothbrush or paintbrush before vacuuming.

#3 KEEP EVERYTHING DRYEven if your sliding windows have drainage holes, you’ll want to make sure water doesn’t sit in any part of the windows for long. Just use a clean, dry rag to wipe up any excess water on the sill or in the tracks after a wash or rainstorm.


How to Care for Sliding Windows

#4 CLEAN WINDOWS REGULARLYWindow-cleaning products are available at all home supply stores, but you can also use mild household cleaning solutions. Soft rags, microfiber towels, paper towels and old newspapers can all be used to clean windows. Just make sure you read your window manufacturer’s instructions to avoid causing damage and voiding your warranty.

WHEN TO REPLACE SLIDING WINDOWSAs much as you want your windows to last forever, the truth is that their service life will eventually come to an end. The trick to avoiding a bigger expense down the road is to care for them to the best of your abilities but also know when it’s time to call a contractor for replacements. Most windows are due for replacement if the following telltale signs exist:

█ Wood rot and other moisture damage █ Condensation (fogging) between panes █ Poor thermal control █ Poor noise insulation █ Drafts █ Difficulty in opening/closing sashes █ Inexplicably high energy bills during

hot/cold months █ Unreasonably high maintenance requirements █ Rapidly fading furniture, drapes and carpets

If you’re ready to have new sliding windows installed, make sure you work only with a licensed local contractor with a good track record of service. Good luck!


RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN OF OMAHA AND LINCOLN1222 10th Street, Great Bend, Kansas 67530

(402) 513-2828www.RbAofOmahaLincoln.com

http://www.RbAofOmahaLincoln.com

the homeowner's guide to sliding windows

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