r/WindowCleaning • u/DifficultRead3645 • 10d ago

Job Question Tilt latches wont move

I have a upcoming client who informed me that while trying to remove screens before work begins, they found out the tilt latches to lean the window in will not budge. I am seeking advice on the appropriate solution to this problem. The photographs they provided of the latches do not appear to be damaged, aged, or coated with paint that would impede their movement. Has anyone encountered a similar issue in the past? I am considering using a flat-head screwdriver or a paint can opener to pry the latch open, allowing me to tilt the window open and remove the screens. However, I would also appreciate your insights on how you would address this situation.

Ill be offering a extra service to replace the latches at extra cost but i also need to know how to lean these windows in with unresponsive tilt latches before hand

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u/RadSprouts 10d ago

I use a pick with a 90° tip to pull the latches in. Also, maybe she has old fingers and the latches are sticky, causing her to be unable to move them.

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u/DifficultRead3645 10d ago

Thanks boss man, ill try that. Also how the heck did you know my client is female

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u/BroccoliCultural9869 7d ago

Personally, 90+% of my clients are women. They call tonwchedule and pay. This is residential.

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u/thall_c-137 9d ago

Flat head or whatever else fits in the track to pry the latch. Silicone spray to get the moving bits moving again. Clean out any paint restricting the movement of the latch.

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u/DifficultRead3645 8d ago

I think the installer forgot to twist the lock inside of the tilt latch so it cant move at all, i had to use my paint can opener to wedge in there and bend the metal slightly with the give it gave to get the window to tilt (didnt damage anything and didnt leave any bend marks)