Check the distance the latch protrudes into the striker plate when the windows are latched. As the latches wear, sometimes a lack of maintenance and lubrication will prevent the plunger from fully extending into the frame's striker plate. A second wear point is the striker plate itself on the frame. Often times if the windows are continually slammed shut, the plunger can bend or wear the plate into the frame, resulting in a shortening of the distance the plunger engages into the orifice.

If the latch is held open until the window is seated and then released, this type of wear is minimized. Many windows can be retro fitted with RV types of latches, some having additional dead bolt capabilities. The dead bolts typically extend further into the striker plate and jamb than the spring loaded tapered plungers. The striker plate would have to be modified to receive the dead bolt. Some are part of the frame, some are attached with rivets or screws and are removable. A file and some labour can easily change the metal's profile to suit a new latch. If it is removable, the plate can be hammered flat again, reinstalled and returned to service.