6 Reasons Why An Awning Window Won't Close All The Way

From the upper hinge to the frame to the lock, so many parts are involved in your RV’s awning windows. So over time, any of these components may end up with minor-to-major issues and cause it not to close all the way!

Dirt accumulation on window tracks, misalignment, and damaged upper hinges are some common reasons why awning windows won’t close all the way. Improper lubrication equally affects the window movement and causes it not to close. Each of them needs to be solved differently.

Without getting familiar with the detailed reasons and fixing procedures, you won’t be able to succeed in dealing with them. And that’s what I’m going to talk about right here. Stay tuned till the end!

Reasons Why Awning Window Won’t Close All The Way & Best Ways to Solve Them

Indeed, there is no single reason causing your awning window not to close all the way. So without getting familiar with them separately, you can’t fix the issue permanently.

And over time, your RV’s awning windows are prone to have problems because of improper maintenance!

So here, I’d like to disclose the most common causes of why it isn’t staying close and the most effective way to solve them –

1. Dirty Window Tracks

For me, this is the prime and most common reason why your awning window won’t close all the way. It happens when your RV’s track is equipped with gunk and an undesirable amount of dirt! And it mostly occurs during the summer and winter seasons.

Sometimes, it is easy-peasy to eliminate debris using a single brush or something like that.

But if you haven’t cleaned up the tracks of RV windows for quite a long, you may have to break your back to get them spick-and-span! Using an extra cleanser might be required if the amount of debris, twigs, and foliage is higher.

I personally prefer cleaning up the tracks every 2-3 times per week so that dirt can’t build up excessively right there.

2. Improper Lubrication

After a certain period of time, lubricating the tracks of all windows is a must to keep them free from getting stuck, corroded, and rusty. So, the awning windows are no exception!

As a result, if you fail to take better care of them through lubrication, chances are your awning windows will get stuck halfway or won’t close all the way.

Apart from that, using spoiled or old lubricants can offer a negative impact equally on your RV windows. So make sure you’re well aware of the proper lubricants to avoid potential damage.

Talking about the type of lubes, experts recommend using silicone-based lubricants for their ultimate protection. According to my experience, you should use lubes at least once per month for the best results.

3. Issues with the Alignment

Misaligned awning windows can never be closed all the way, even if every single component of it is okay. Not only while closing, but you’ll also have a hard time opening them for being misaligned!

Unfortunately, awning windows lose their actual alignment over time, especially if you offer too much pressure while opening and shutting the slide down.

If that’s what happened to your RV awning windows, I’d prefer to call someone expert to deal with them correctly. Re-aligning the windows might be the only solution.

4. Twisted Frame

In a nutshell, twisted frames can keep the windows open in the opposite direction, which ultimately causes them not to close all the way.

Excessive pressure during the opening and closing can turn the frame weaker in a gradual way. So if you’ve done the same thing with yours, then rest assured that the frame gets twisted that needs a permanent replacement.

As the range varies, you should have a preparation to spend around 150-300 dollars or so. That’s the approximate range of the frame if the labor charge is excluded.

5. Broken Upper Hinge

The upper hinge plays a significant role in keeping your awning window open at a specific angle. So, it’s pretty common for your awning windows not to close all the way due to broken or damaged hinges.

As it works as a stabilizer, there is no chance to overlook its necessity! I’d prefer to observe the area very carefully. Thus, you can confirm whether there are any screws loosened so that you can tighten them to avoid the issue.

In contrast, replacing the upper hinge is the only way to go if the part itself is broken. For this, it will cost you around $18-$38, excluding the labor charge which might be around $25-$41.

6. Added Coatings of Paint

Here comes the last and one of the prime reasons your RV awning window isn’t closing correctly. In general, we need to paint the jambs and stiles over the years to hold the beauty.

As a result, the frame parts of our window add multi-layers of paint, which eventually make it thicker. And that’s when you fail to close your awning windows all the way!

Re-leveling the thicker parts of your window is the best way to solve the problem. But for those who can’t get into such inconveniences, I’d recommend consulting a professional to get the job done.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any question in your mind regarding the “awning window won’t close all the way?” Well, check out the answers I’ve made right here asked by many RV owners:

What if the awning window is stuck closed and can’t move all the way?

In most cases, the awning window gets closed for lack of lubrication. That’s why experts recommend applying a lube at least once a month. Misaligned windows can also cause your windows to get stuck.

How do dust and debris cause my awning windows not to work all the way?

As I’ve discussed above, small particles of dirt and debris accumulate in the tight corners and frames of the window. And this way, it creates a significant amount of jamming that causes your awning windows not to close all the way.

What’s the replacement cost of awning windows?

Although the range of awning windows varies from brand to brand, around $200-$480 is the average cost. If you can install it yourself, you won’t require extra dollars of 20-50 for the labor charge.

Do rusting issues cause my awning windows not to close all the way?

Due to moisture, the lower hinge and lock may turn rusty over time. Thus, they will lose their flexibility and cause your awning windows not to close.
In order to avoid moisture build-up, wipe off these tricky parts thoroughly if you find them wet during the rain.

Wrapping Up

To keep your awning windows away from “not-closing” issues, I’d always recommend taking care of proper lubrication to avoid getting stuck in the hallway.

Apart from that, keeping the window frame clean and tidy is equally important. This is because, during a drive, your RV frame tends to accumulate countless amounts of dust, which eventually result in jamming!

Let’s not forget about keeping other parts of your RV awning windows in observation, including the frame, upper hinge, lock, and so on. If you find any of them cracked or not working properly, consult an expert without thinking twice.

But if the problem is fixable, try it out to save your pocket from spending extra dollars on labor. After all, a penny saved is a penny earned!

Zayan

Zayan is an accomplished author and a go-to expert for all things RV and camper-related. With a passion for adventure and a knack for problem-solving, he has spent years exploring the open road and fine-tuning his knowledge of recreational vehicles.

Zayan’s writing is a testament to his expertise, offering readers practical solutions to common RV dilemmas. Whether it’s troubleshooting mechanical issues, optimizing space, or planning the perfect road trip, Zayan’s insightful advice and engaging storytelling make him an invaluable resource for both seasoned travelers and newcomers to the world of RVing.

6 Reasons Why an Awning Window Won’t Close All The Way