Hand2Live

Window Maintenance

Windows new and old can be difficult to open due to:
Extreme temperatures
Excessive moisture and drought- shrink and swell building materials
Foundational shifting
Dirt and grime
Paint over seams
Many windows have a small area to grasp, providing only enough space for fingertips.
Our handle allows users to fully grasp and incorporate more muscle to utilize more of their available strength.

There are four materials used in the manufacture of window frames, wood, hardboard, vinyl and metal. Our investigation into the subject of window maintenance with various window manufacturers and suppliers revealed no formal maintenance programs.

The individual manufacturer in accordance with their customer’s applications determines the amount of force required to operate a window. As a general rule of thumb, it should take the force of 2 fingers to raise a residential window. This is very subjective; therefore we offer the following tips to help keep windows easy to open.

Objective 1. Keep tracks, locks, lock groove and sills inside and out clean and free of dirt.
To accomplish this:

1. Use a scrub pad to remove stubborn dirt and buildup and a long bristle brush to get to the fine particles in hard to reach spaces and vacuum as it becomes loosened.

2. Next, mix a half cup of water and a few drops of dish detergent and clean lightly to remove excess buildup, place paper towel in tracks to catch excess water.

3. Dry thoroughly with a rag.

Objective 2. Lubricate windows:
Note: Care must be taken when choosing products, so as to not cause damage to the surface being lubricated.

1. We recommend a dry-film lubricant.

2. Lubricate tracks and locks.

Objective 3. Tighten all loose screws.

1. Use the proper tool to tighten loose screws.

CAUTION: Windows hard to open due to damage, imperfections, or shifting should be corrected by professionals in the window business.

Properly maintaining windows will allow your family to enjoy all of the benefits of its design, to assist you with this we have provided you with some general tips on window maintenance. We encourage you to check the operation of your window as often as you like, but at least 4 times a year. Many areas in the country experience climatic changes that could alter the windows operational efficiency. What a great opportunity to check your family’s readiness for the home fire drill. Four seasons bring 4 reasons to protect the ones you love!

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Window Handle Installation

Aluminum or Vinyl Window Handle Installation:
Install Signature Aluminum or Vinyl window handles
Place groove over the window lip*
Keep handle a small space from glass
Use Allen wrench to tighten screws

*View of window lip (sash)

Wood Window Handle Installation
Install wood window handles
Place handle to window mark holes
Drill ½” deep with 1/8 drill bit
Place handle and insert screws
Tighten with screwdriver

* When using the handles for practice use them to help open the window only then use the window frame to close the window.

*If you are placing the handles on windows elevated above the first floor make sure an escape ladder is available. Escape ladders are available for 2 and 3 story homes.

*Open windows should have windows fallout guards in any area where there are children.

Video - Installation and Maintenance

Ladder Handle Installation

Install Ladder handle
Place handle to wall inset mark holes
Drill 2 “deep with 1/8 drill bit
Place handle and insert screws
Tighten with screwdriver

Stability

Challenging

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