When should I call a tradie instead of DIY?

Call a licensed tradie if the job is outside your skill level, involves regulated work (electrical, gas, plumbing past the tap), or you're unsure about safety.

Doors & Windows · Doors & Windows

Free a Stiff Sliding Window

Q: How much does a tradie charge for free a stiff sliding window?

Estimated tradie cost: $120–$200.

Sliding windows seize when the tracks are full of dirt. Vacuum the channel, scrub with a brush and warm soapy water, dry, then apply a silicone lubricant — never WD-40 or oil, which attracts more grit.

Likely issue

Dirt and grit in the bottom track

DIY difficulty

1/5

Estimated DIY cost

$12

Estimated tradie cost

$120–$200

Tools required

Vacuum with crevice tool
Old toothbrush
Cloth

Materials required

Silicone spray lubricant$12

Step-by-step instructions

Vacuum the full length of the track with a crevice tool.
Sliding windows seize when the tracks are full of dirt. Vacuum the channel, scrub with a brush and warm soapy water, dry, then apply a silicone lubricant — never WD-40 or oil, which attracts more grit.

Safety warnings

Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, safety glasses), isolate power or water where relevant, and stop work if anything looks unsafe or unfamiliar.

When to call a tradie

Call a licensed tradie if the work is outside the scope of this guide, involves regulated trades (electrical, gas, structural, waterproofing), or if you discover hidden damage. A professional will typically charge $120–$200.

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