Older wooden windows have a classic closure system called the “Cremone” system that extends on two metal rods connected to a central drive handle, forming a system called, precisely, a Cremone handle.
When the central handle rotates it pushes the two rods, one upwards and one downwards so as to insert the ends into special metal seats (bushings) on the fixed frame. The rods are held in place by guides screwed onto the window frame.
After prolonged use, Cremone handles are subject to slippage or jamming (if not breakage), especially at the handle.
How to maintain Cremone handles
Wooden window with Cremone closures
The maintenance for these requires several steps:
1) Unscrew the metal guides fixed on the door frame and also remove the handle. In doing so, the rods are released and can be removed.
2) Lightly sand the lower part to remove any paint or paint residue that was applied after the window was installed, in order to facilitate movement.
3) The Cremone handle mechanism must be cleaned with a good brushing and then lubricated with WD-40 Multi-Use so that the handle can rotate easily. In particular, the seats where the mechanism is connected to the two rods must be lubricated.
4) The sliding guides and the lower part of the rods (the one that rubs against the door) must be lubricated with WD-40 Specialist Dirt and Dust Resistant Dry Lube PTFE which provides excellent lubrication and protection against wear. It dries quickly and repels dust and dirt.
5) At this point reassemble the Cremone handles by repositioning the guides, fastening them by screwing them in.
Modern window closure mechanisms
There are a number of different closure mechanisms for windows: some are similar in design to the Cremone system, but have rods which run inside the thickness of the door and others are housed in a lowering obtained in the thickness of the door on the closing edge.
In both cases they must not be disassembled unless you have specific knowledge and skills. If they show signs of hardening or malfunction, make sure to lubricate the hubs, joints and mechanisms of the handle with the same product indicated above (WD-40 Specialist Dirt and Dust Resistant Dry Lube PTFE).
Check, in particular, that the ends of the locking rods that engage in the respective metal bushings on the frame are not bent or deformed. This can happen easily if the window slams open/closed due to strong wind. If the part is deformed, try to adjust it with a file and give it back a regular shape, then lubricate with WD-40 Multi-Use.
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