Casement Windows: Care and Maintenance Tips

Casement windows are excellent window styles that provide ventilation, natural lighting and great views. If you have one of these in your home, you’ll want to enjoy these benefits for as long as possible. Window and roof replacement contractor Home Pro Exteriors shares care and maintenance tips for your casement windows.

Apply Lubricant

Modern casement windows are operated with a crank mechanism set into the bottom window frame. The crank may become more difficult to operate at some point. If this happens, do not force the window open. First, clean the frames and make sure nothing is blocking the operator arms or the sash itself. Try to open the casement window and see if there’s still some resistance.

Apply silicone-based spray lubricant onto the operator arms, locking mechanisms, and other moving parts. Wait a few minutes, then try it again. Ideally, it should work smoothly at this point. If it’s still difficult to operate, or if you’re hearing grinding sounds, call your window and roof repair contractor for repairs.

Clean the Sashes

The operator arms make cleaning casement window sashes easier. Traditionally, keeping casement windows clean was difficult because the sashes were attached to the frame with hinges. The exterior area, in particular, is difficult to reach. With modern casement windows, you can open the window and simply reach out around the sash. While vinyl and composite windows are easy to clean, you should be careful not to let droplets of water dry on the glass; otherwise, you’ll end up with water spots. As soon as the window is cleaned, remove moisture from the glass using a rubber squeegee and a soft cloth.

Sashes That Don’t Sit Flush With the Frame

Casement windows have another unique advantage over other operable window styles: the sashes sit flush on the frame, which creates an airtight seal. This makes casement windows the most energy-efficient operable window style. If it doesn’t sit flush with the frame, make sure the window is cleaned and lubricated as described above. Inspect the window for loose hardware. Depending on the sash or frame material, there may be some warping that happened due to temperature changes. If this is the case, do not attempt repairs, as this may void your warranty. Rather, call your window contractor and schedule an appointment.

Home Pro Exteriors is your leading replacement window and siding contractor. Give us a call at (845) 747-0035 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Monroe, NY, and surrounding areas.