Windows hard to open

I had good luck •sparingly• spraying silicone on the rails while the window is open.

Spray some drylube on the seal you should be fine

If it were me I would try some silicone lubricant, NOT anything with petroleum in it, which will attack rubber. Armorall, which last time I checked the MSDS sheet does not have any.

What you are describing (beside being a lube issue) can be caused by improper leveling. If your frame is slightly tweaked it can cause windows and even door frames to be off and thus hard to open or close.

Try re leveling and don't over tighten your stabilizing jacks..

deleted, double post!!!!

Thanks everyone, I have lubed the sides of the frames, as they were tending to bind,after I passed the stopped part.
It seems to be something in the center of the window,, where the upper and lower section meet when down. After getting past this part, the windows go on up. I'll try some silicone.
When it gets above zero here, I think I will remove one window completely.
Maybe I can then see what is happening. Replacement windows are pretty pricey.

My unit is level.

I was just wondering, why if it's that cold out are you trying to open the window?

old guy wrote:
I was just wondering, why if it's that cold out are you trying to open the window?

Maybe he fluffed?

My best guess is the at 1/2" rise you are encountering resistance between the weather strip on the sash encountering the weather strip on the frame. You may do well to clean them both very thoroughly. They are both "fur" type and when dirty or wet can make them stiffer at cold temps. Also be aware the anything you may want to use as a lubricant will act like glue on this type of weather strip. It's best to have them clean and dry.

bguy wrote:
My best guess is the at 1/2" rise you are encountering resistance between the weather strip on the sash encountering the weather strip on the frame. You may do well to clean them both very thoroughly. They are both "fur" type and when dirty or wet can make them stiffer at cold temps. Also be aware the anything you may want to use as a lubricant will act like glue on this type of weather strip. It's best to have them clean and dry.

X2

I would not use silicon or any other liquid "lubricants" since those will tend to grab and hold onto any dirt that is in the air.

Instead, use an old trick which can is typically used for hard to move zippers.. Candle wax!

Candle wax when rubbed onto the track or window will act as a dry lubricant but it will not attract and hold dirt..