Most windows operate reliably for years but, with time, certain types of windows can become balky in the way they operate. Wood frames rot from prolonged exposure to dampness and are delectable to termites. Simple exposure to sun creates cracks over time. Even blowing dust wears away finishes. Double-hung windows—the type that has a bottom section you can raise and a top section you can lower—are the biggest offenders, and when they go bad, they’re almost impossible to open. Repainting wooden frames every three to five years, depending on your prevailing weather conditions, will preserve them—just don’t let the paint lap over moving parts or you will make a window impossible to open. Also, yearly maintenance, such as filling cracks with putty and caulking the edges, will go a long way toward protecting them.
To restore spots that are not badly damaged, take a screwdriver and clean out any rotted wood. Fill cracks or holes with wood or epoxy putty, building up layers if need be. Soak with wood preservative, allow to dry, and then sand smooth, prime, and paint.
Even vinyl and aluminum windows need a little basic care. You can scrub both types with a natural bristle brush and detergent solution. If you have anodized aluminum frames (the silvery color), you can restore their luster by polishing them with fine steel wool and then coating them with paste wax. Remember: contact a window repair or replacement contractor if the job is too much to handle yourself.
