How To Make Your Aluminium Sliding Window Slide Easier

Are your ageing sliding aluminium windows causing frustration in your Australian home? You're not alone.

Many homeowners face this issue, especially with older sliding window systems.

In this guide, we'll walk you through a quick and cost-effective solution to get those stubborn aluminium sliding windows back in action with a focus on sliding window designs.  It's applicable to both residential and commercial sliding window options.

It's important to note that any DIY track repair or DIY aluminium window fixes can cause further damage to the window and the frame. We always recommend consulting a professional glazier before doing any DIY glazier work.

Identifying the Issue

Before we delve into the solution, let's identify the culprits behind your sliding aluminium window not sliding anymore. There are two common problems that can affect old aluminium window tracks in homes:

1. Worn-out Rollers: The small wheels that support the window's movement in aluminium sliding door windows often wear out over time, especially under the weight of the window. These rollers can break, rendering the sliding window immovable. Fortunately, replacing these rollers is a relatively simple and cost-effective fix for sliding window systems.
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2. Damaged Aluminium Track: This is where the Miracle Track comes into play. If your sliding window designs feature rollers that have been damaged for a while, the aluminium track they ride on might also be damaged. A damaged track can hinder smooth sliding and even lead to window sagging.

Tools Needed

Before we get to the solution, gather the necessary tools suitable for sliding window installation and sliding window frame materials in Australian homes:

• Hacksaw
• Screwdrivers
• Caulk gun
• File
• Clamp
• Tape measure
• Steg bar packet (window rollers)
• Vacuum

Assessing the Damage

Take a good look at your sliding windows. If you notice that the sliding windows don't slide properly, it's time to investigate further.

Carefully remove the sliding windows and place them in a secure location.

Repairing Worn-out Rollers

The simplest issue to address is worn-out rollers. You can easily replace them with new units, which are widely available in Australia at window manufacturers or your local Bunnings.

This involves unscrewing the old rollers and attaching the new ones. However, if the sliding windows' rollers have been damaged for a while, you might need to address the aluminium track as well.

Introducing the Miracle Track

If you've cleaned the sliding window tracks and replaced the rollers but your sliding aluminium windows still don't slide properly, it's time to introduce the Miracle Track. This innovative product may sound a bit far fetched, but it definitely lives up to its name.

Using the Miracle Track

1. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the sliding window tracks, removing years of dirt and grime. A vacuum cleaner can be helpful for this task.
2. The Miracle Track comes in various types, suitable for slimline aluminium windows, and you should select the one that matches your sliding window tracks. It's typically a U-shaped steel piece that you'll cut to the correct length.
3. Measure the length you need, ensuring it fits the sliding window tracks properly. A little short is fine; it doesn't need to reach the end perfectly.
4. Use a hacksaw to cut the Miracle Track to the desired length. This might take some effort, so be patient, and rotate the blade if necessary for a clean cut.
5. After cutting, use a file to remove any burrs and sharp edges from the cut end.
6. Depending on how damaged your sliding window tracks are, you can use a bit of builder's bog or silicone to create a small cushion on the track's surface. This will help secure the Miracle Track in place.
7. Gently slide the Miracle Track over the old, damaged track. Ensure it's properly aligned and evenly seated. It's worth noting that the Miracle Track is flexible, so don't force it too much.
8. Hold it in place for a few seconds to let the silicone grip and create a cushioned steel surface.
9. Finally, reattach the sliding windows, ensuring they're equipped with new, functional rollers.

Testing the Results

With the Miracle Track in place and your aluminium sliding windows equipped with new rollers, give it a try.

You'll be amazed at how smoothly your sliding windows glide back and forth. In just 10 to 15 minutes, your non-functional sliding windows will be transformed into fully functional, smooth-moving ones, equipped with noise-reducing sliding windows.

‍How To Fix Your Sliding Windows

The Miracle Track might not be the cheapest solution, but it certainly is cheaper than the alternative of replacing the entire window.

Eventually however, the window will wear down to the point that window replacement is required. When that's the case, our expert Brisbane glaziers at JRC Glass Solutions are your answer!

Our team can come in and retrofit aluminium windows to swap out the old for the new. With years of experience in aluminium window installation, we are the leaders for all things aluminium windows and doors in Brisbane.

If you're in Brisbane and stuck with a faulty sliding window, then you may require an aluminium sliding window replacement. In that case, contact JRC today!