What you'll need:
- Find the Balance Shoe Each section of glass on a double-hung window is called a sash. ...
- Locate the Tilt Pin Each window sash has a tilt pin on either side, located in the balance shoe. ...
- Unlock the Balance Shoe The U-shape means your tilt pin is in a locked position. ...
- Reset the Pin ...
- Adjust the Lower Sash ...
- Reset the Window (and Test) ...
How do I replace a double hung window?
How to Replace Double-Hung Window Balance Springs
- Release the Lower Sash Look for the sash tilt levers at the top of the lower sash. ...
- Release the Top Sash Lower the top sash until you can access the tile levers on top of the sash. ...
- Remove the Vinyl Covers Pull the vinyl covers hiding the lower sash’s balance springs from each side of the frame. ...
What is the difference between single Hung and double hung windows?
Main Differences Between Single and Double Hung Windows
- A Single-hung window has an operable bottom sash, whereas the double-hung window has both top and bottom operable sash.
- Air ventilation is more in double hung windows compared to single hung windows.
- Single-hung windows are difficult to clean as compared to double-hung windows.
- Single-hung windows are cheaper than double-hung windows.
How to clean and operate your double hung window?
How to Open Double Hung Windows for Cleaning
- Set a chair underneath the window area with the back of the chair facing toward the window. ...
- Turn the locking mechanism in the center of the two sashes counterclockwise to unlock the window. ...
- Slide the lower sash at least 3 inches toward the top of the window. ...
- Slide the upper sash down at least 2 inches. ...
Do I Want single hung or double hung windows?
Single-hung windows predate double-hung windows and may be preferred for an authentic look on historic homes. In modern homes, single-hung windows additionally may be preferred because they cost a bit less than double-hung windows. Also, it is often argued that single-hung windows are less susceptible to air infiltration, or leakage, simply ...
How to install a vinyl pawl in a window?
Position the locking terminal at the end of the cartridge so the pawl is facing up and toward what is the room side of the window opening. Slide the cartridge down the center of the channel in the vinyl jamb liner and hook the S-clip over the top of the track. Replace the foam cap and reinstall the vinyl unit into the window opening.
How many balances does a window have?
Our window uses a “block-and-tackle” balance. Each window has four balances, two per jamb liner. If the locking terminal is broken, the cord in one block-and tackle mechanism may have snarled. To restring the pulley system, use a pliers to grab the top of the tensioning spring and detach it from the holding pin. Once the pulleys are restrung, run some cord out the bottom of the balance, clamp it with a locking pliers and reconnect the pulley block to the spring. Insert the holding pin and install a new locking terminal (Photo 6).
What to do if double hung window falls shut?
If you have a double-hung window that falls shut, you may find yourself propping it open with wooden dowels or sturdy books. While this is an acceptable short-term fix, it can’t be your long-term solution. Before you pay to have your windows replaced, follow this double-hung window repair guide from Glass Doctor®.
Why do people use double hung windows?
Double-hung windows are very popular with homeowners because both the top and bottom sashes open , offering flexible airflow options. If you have a double-hung window that falls shut, you may find yourself propping it open with wooden dowels ...
How many balance shoes are in a double hung window?
Each double-hung window in your home has four balance cartridges, two per jamb liner. If one of the balance shoes inside isn’t working properly, the sash will slide down when you attempt to raise it. Find the balance shoe in the casing of the window’s outer frame. In the case of dropped windows, the balance shoe is usually pushed to the bottom ...
What is a drop window?
Awning and casement windows pivot outward. But single-and double-hung windows open vertically, which makes them uniquely susceptible to a condition called “dropped window.” This is when the sash keeps falling shut or refuses to stay open.
Where is the balance shoe on a window?
Find the balance shoe in the casing of the window’s outer frame. In the case of dropped windows, the balance shoe is usually pushed to the bottom of the frame.
How to remove double hung window?
Remove the double-hung window. First, you will need to pop out both takeout clips at a 45-degree angle. Then, you will need to locate the sash stops and remove those out of the frame before you can slide the sash up. When you’ve removed these, slide the window up until you feel it catch on the take out clips .
What does it mean when a double hung window falls?
A falling double hung window means that your balance shoe is a sign of a broken, unbalanced, or missing balance shoe. To get your double hung window ot stay open, you will need to check the tilt pin, make sure that it fits in the shoe, check the shoe’s position, unlock it, and then screw it closed. If it’s broken, you need to replace it.
What to do if your balance shoe tilt pin won't fit?
If the tilt pin can’t fit in your balance shoe, you will need to order a new balance shoe and replace it. If it can, proceed to the next step. Rotate your balance shoe to an unlocked position. You can do this with your fingernails, or a flathead screwdriver.
How to adjust a window balance?
Ready to make sure your windows stay in place? Follow these instructions to make it happen: 1 Find the shoe balance, then take a look at the tilt pin. If the tilt pin can’t fit in your balance shoe, you will need to order a new balance shoe and replace it. If it can, proceed to the next step. 2 Rotate your balance shoe to an unlocked position. You can do this with your fingernails, or a flathead screwdriver. Either way, you will need to make sure to keep your balance shoe properly screwed in. 3 Guide your balance shoe up to the general area of the disconnected sash. You only need a couple of inches of space to make this happen. Lock your shoe back into place once it’s high up. 4 Slide your balance shoe back into place. Check to make sure that you can engage your tilt pin and lock it back into place. 5 Test it out a couple of times. Open your window to varying levels near the sash. If it stays up after a couple of knocks on your window, you should be good to go.
What to do if window won't stay open?
If you have a window that won’t stay open after you lift it up, then you just need to take a look at the balance shoe. In most cases, adjusting the lock with a screwdriver and jiggling the tip pin will give you good results.
How to test if a window is working?
Test it out a couple of times. Open your window to varying levels near the sash. If it stays up after a couple of knocks on your window, you should be good to go.
Can you slide up a double hung window?
If you’re new to double hung windows, you might not be aware of how to properly use them. You can’t just slide up the window and hope for the best. You need to be able to lock your windows into place. If you haven’t done this yet, you should give it a try. In many situations, this is the only actual fix you’ll need.
What to do if bathroom window is giving you trouble?
If it’s a bathroom window that’s giving you trouble, run the exhaust fan during and after your showers. Similarly, a stubborn sash in the kitchen may be aggravated by stovetop cooking; run the exhaust fan during meal preparation and see if that helps.
How to lubricate a window sash?
Once you’ve got it open to the breeze, use the stub of a candle to lubricate the channel along which the sash travels. The wax doesn’t leave a mess and should make it much easier to operate the window in the future.
How do I remove a sash from a car?
If doing the above makes no difference, I recommend removing both the upper and lower sashes. 1 Start by taking out the screws in the interior stops. 2 Next, carefully pry the stop molding free from the lower sash. 3 Proceed to pull out the parting strips—and sometimes that’s easier said than done. If the strips have been painted and are stuck, reach again for the utility knife. Score the joints that surround the strips, then pull—hard if you must, but carefully. 4 Once those parting strips are out of the way, both sashes (the upper one first) should come out rather easily.
How to get stuck parting strips out?
Proceed to pull out the parting strips—and sometimes that’s easier said than done. If the strips have been painted and are stuck, reach again for the utility knife. Score the joints that surround the strips, then pull—hard if you must, but carefully.
How to open a window with a utility knife?
Run your utility knife along all the joints that surround the sash. And don’t forget to address the rear side of the top edge (you may need to climb up on a step stool in order to see what you’re doing up there). Now put the knife down and give the window a try. It should open—if not easily, then with a bit of fussing.
Can you remove window sashes?
Your window sashes are going to need more attention than you can safely administer while they’re in place. Removing the sashes involves a handful of steps.
How to keep old windows from getting stuck?
An older window is likely made out of wood and there are ways you can maintain a wooden window to prevent it from getting stuck again. Use a sanding block to ensure smoothness around the window. You can also apply candlewax or beeswax around the frame to help the window glide.
Why are my windows stuck?
For wooden windows, the reason for sticking could be because of swelling from humidity and other elements. Wood is prone to rotting, which could be a factor in ...
How to get a window to open without paint?
Start by jimmying your putty knife in between the window and the frame. Work your way around the window frame. Cut away any dried paint that could be preventing your window from opening. Finally, place the block of wood near the bottom of the window, on the sill. Gently hammer the block to loosen the window.
How to hammer a window with a hammer?
First, take the block of wood and wrap it in the protective cloth. The cloth (microfiber or otherwise) acts as a layer to soften the hammer against the window itself so you don’t damage it. Gently tap the hammer against the cloth-covered block, starting at the bottom of one side of the window frame. Alternately, and gently, tap the hammer ...
What is Feldco window?
That’s where Feldco comes in. Our energy efficient, durable vinyl windows are made to withstand the hectic weather of Chicago and will work properly and look great through it all. For over 40 years, we’ve been the leading window replacement company by serving over 350,000 homeowners.
Why is my window not budging?
If your window still isn’t budging, it could be because the seal isn’t completely broken. This method again calls for hammer, block of wood (and protective cloth to prevent any further damage to your window) and of course, a putty knife.
Why do aluminum windows feel tight?
For aluminum windows, common issues include the damage of the window’s working parts, such as a catch or lock missing screws, a hinge that needs to be readjusted, or a broken fastener. Windows that feel tight against their track possibly need to have lubricant applied in order to loosen them.
