The opening and closing mechanisms of doors and windows (often called door hinges or guides) can be very different according to the closing system and the material with which the door or window is made.
In addition to classic hinges (which can in turn have different shapes and structures), there are casement window hinges, sliding tracks and sliding track kits for the ceiling or the floor (sliding doors and windows, folding doors), hinges of various types and styles (butt hinges, pivot hinges, etc.).
Why do hinges for doors and windows get stuck?
The continuous use of the same doors and windows along with the action of humidity, frost, smog or the simple production of greasy vapours from cooking lead to the slow, constant degeneration of their mechanical systems, with the consequent malfunction resulting in squeaks and difficult closure.
In the most serious cases you may not be able to open/close a door or a window because the (rotating or sliding) hinges are so damaged by the above factors.
Although all these factors are almost inevitable, sometimes we add further problems by adding lubricating greases, whether oil-based or pasty. These often attract dust and mix with the humidity in the air to create a sort of “sludge” that not only no longer has any sort of lubricating action, but also interferes with the necessary movement.
So how can you lubricate door hinges?
It’s best to act in two phases if you have such a problem:
- thoroughly clean the opening and sliding systems;
- apply suitable lubrication which also acts as a protective element against such degradation phenomena.
The first phase
In the first phase it’s best to use WD-40 Multi-Use, which cleans and prevents the formation of rust and corrosion, penetrates the parts in contact, lubricates the blocked parts and eliminates and protects any surface from humidity. It also removes any grease stains.
The second phase
In the second phase you can use WD-40 Specialist Anti-Friction Dry PTFE Lubricant. This product contains PTFE, which leaves a dry film on the hinge that allows better lubrication without attracting dust, dirt and grease. It dries quickly and is compatible with all metals, plastics and glass. It withstands temperatures ranging from -45°C to +260°C.
Its best to use WD-40Specialist High Performance Silicone Lubricant on garage door guides and on the opening and sliding systems of PVC windows: it repels dust and dirt and has excellent lubricating properties that ensure the perfect movement of the parts. It withstands temperatures from -35°C to +200°C and is also very effective in extending the life of the rubber parts, insulating them from humidity after rapidly drying. Its formula is compatible with all metals, plastics, rubber and wood.
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