Most sliders have tracks on the bottom and top, and runners for moving along the tracks. Screens are usually fixed. With no cranks, hinges, or other hardware for opening and closing, they tend to be sturdy.
Grit and debris buildup in the tracks can keep these windows from sliding easily. Tracks can also fill with water, so they often have weep holes for drainage. Clogged weep holes can lead to corrosion or rot.
Lifespan: 15-20 years
Step 1: Inside your home, check the walls around your windows for dampness or staining. If you find any, it means water is getting in around the frames. Address the problem ASAP.
Step 2: Look at the frames and windowsills. You shouldn’t see any gaps between them and the walls. If you find gaps, seal them.
Step 3: Check for gaps where the glass meets the sash. Fix any cracked, loose, or missing sealant, glazing, or gaskets to keep drafts and water from creeping through.
Step 4: Cracked glass panes can create hazards. Repair broken glass right away.
Step 5: Open the windows. They should slide smoothly and quietly. If they’re sticky or noisy, you may need to clean the runners. Make sure the weep holes are clear of debris. Check the seals where the sash fits into the frame. Replace any that are cracked, torn, or separated.
Step 6: Close the windows and lock them. Locks should move easily between positions. While locked, windows should be tightly closed with no gaps around the sash.