Learning to troubleshoot windows can provide some easy fixes.
Windows that go up and down to provide ventilation come in two major varieties: single-hung windows, where only the bottom sash, or frame, moves; and double-hung windows, where both upper and lower windows are capable of moving. Most problems occur in double hung windows with counterweight systems. The troubleshooting process for single-hung windows is the same as that for only the bottom sash.
Instructions
1. Run the window up and down to determine what the issues are. A window that is hard to open and will not stay up is probably disconnected from its counterweight. Windows that are difficult to open because they stick typically require a thoroughly cleaning of the jamb. The edges may also need sanding to smooth out the operation.
2. Remove the inside stop from your window. This is a thin, rectangular, vertical piece of trim on the sides of the window. In wood windows, use a wood chisel to pry the bottom end of the trim out gently, and work your way up gently to complete removal. For newer windows, remove the screws from the trim and lift it out. Repeat this on the opposite side of the window.
3. Lift the lower sash out of the window. There should be two ropes, one attached in a notch in each upper corner. If one or more of these is broken, it will need to be replaced. Unhook the ropes from the sash by pulling them firmly out from the side to pop it out of the notch.
4. Pry the side trim from the window to expose the gap behind to reveal the window counterweight. Cut broken ropes free from the weights. Replace with the same thickness of rope. A soft nylon rope works well. Cut the rope to match the length of the original and tie a knot in one end. Thread the loose end through the eye of the weight, up and over the counterweight pulley in the jamb and down. Tie a knot in this end and slip it into the notch on the side of the sash where the original rope came from. Replace both ropes if needed.
5. Scrub the frame of the window down well with a solution of warm water and dish soap. Use a scrubber sponge. Look for built-up paint or other problems on the sash frame, or in the channel of the window frame. Scrub the channel of the frame. Lightly sand the edges of the frame and the channel behind with a medium grit sanding sponge. If the bottom sash is the only issue, reinstall it by reattaching the ropes, and tapping the stop into place with a rubber mallet.
6. Remove the dividing stop behind the bottom sash, if the upper sash frame needs attention. Treat it in the same fashion. Replace broken ropes, clean and sand the edges and replace it. Tap the stop into place with the mallet. Replace the bottom sash as outlined above.
7. Pull old nails through the back of the side trim with locking pliers to preserve the face of the trim. Realign the trim and nail it in place with finish nails, one every eight inches.
Tags: bottom sash, place with, sash frame, broken ropes, frame channel, into place, into place with
