Hi - Not sure what the technical term for my style of windows is but can tell you that there are two double paned windows that slide side to side on tracks to open. In the last few years, I have noticed that there is a 1/4 to 1/2 inch gap between the windows and the frame. This gap is on the top but I can push up on each window and then of course the gap is at the bottom. Lots of air coming thru the gap. I can't put anything in the gap as it will prevent the windows from opening. Should I take the frame apart and add shims somewhere?

I have lived in this house for 25 years and am just now noticing this - not sure why this just started happening!

Thank you for your time

 

Slider windows. Can't really give you very good advice without at least a picture or something to go on. Are these vinyl windows? Wood windows? Aluminum windows?

A good place to start would be to remove the 2 sashes (the part that slides) and check them over to see if they are dirty or is something is jammed in there. Sometimes those tracks get dirty and cause problems.

While you have them out, take a tape measure and measure the height of the frame in several locations. Left side, middle, right side... and see if the frame is actually bowed, or if it's straight. Lay a 4ft level (or something as wide as the window is) on the bottom frame if the window to determine if it's bowed up or down. If it appears straight, check the top. It's safe to say the top and bottom should be parallel and straight (not bowed).

Removing trim and shimming the window might be needed, but a tape measure and level (or straightedge) will tell you more than I can. I can't even see the window! I'm in Nebraska but I don't think my binoculars are strong enough... lol

Post back if you have pictures or have additional questions after trying some of the aforementioned things.