How to Lubricate Your Windows
Part of routine homeowner maintenance is lubricating windows. Windows need to be lubricated periodically to keep them in good working order. This guide walks you through the process.
What You Need
- Something to clean the tracks with. Window manufacturers suggest a combination of a vacuum, a can of compressed air, and a damp cloth.
- Dry silicone spray lubricant.
- Cloth/rag(s). Have a handful of dry cloths available if you are lubricating more than one window.
- Step stool. Depending on the height of your windows, you may need a step stool.
What to Do
- Clean and remove debris.
Clean the window tracks, glides, and seals first. Use a vacuum, compressed air and/or a damp cloth to remove any dust, dirt or debris. - Apply lubricant.
Spray a silicone-based lubricant onto a dry cloth, and apply evenly along tracks, jamb liner, and weather stripping. - Open and close.
Move the window open and closed several times to distribute the lubricant evenly through the entire window assembly. - Wipe clean.
Remove excessive lubricant using a dry cloth.
Tips and Recommendations
- Read and follow your manufacturer’s guidelines when lubricating your windows. There may be slight modifications to the procedures listed above from your specific window manufacturer.
- Avoid using petroleum-based lubricants which can gum up the tracks. Read the label of the lubricant carefully.
- Make window lubrication part of seasonal home care in the spring and fall. It’s much more pleasant to do when temperatures are mild!