How to Fix Double Hung Windows

Double hung windows have been in use for a very long time. They are an attractive addition to homes as well as functional. However, over time and use they will eventually give out and need repair. With constant painting and ropes wearing out they will invariably jam or just stop sliding up and down. Instead of replacing your windows, you can learn to repair them and save some money.

Needed for repairs:

• Pry bar


• Hammer


• Chisel


• ¼” Nylon rope (only if your sashes use ropes for balance weights)


• Utility knife


• Screwdriver


• WD-40

1. Pry loose and remove the window stops holding in the sash on both sides of the jamb (frame).


2. Cut the weight ropes and allow the weights to fall inside the window cavity.


3. Take out the bead that separates the inside and outside sashes. If you do not break it you can use it again.


4. Remove both top and bottom sashes.


5. Open the access door in the jamb at the bottom to remove the weights. These doors are normally about 12 inches up the jamb and held in with a screw. If you cannot find or access the weight door, you may have to remove the jam.


6. Clean the rope pulleys of paint or rust. Feed your nylon rope into the cavity and attach to the weights. Locate the knots in the weights so that the outside sash travels just over a foot or more for ventilation on hot days and the inside sash travels the entire length of the jamb.


7. Clean off old paint and rust prior to re-installing. Old paint and rust will prevent a smooth sliding window if not removed. Waxing the edges of the sash with furniture wax, butchers wax or perhaps rub a candle on them.


8. Touch up the paint. You will have to leave the window open until the paint dries but it saves a lot of headache by doing it now.


9. Install the new rope into the outer sash. Tie the knot so the weights have full travel. Replace the inner bead now. Now you can replace the outer sash.


10. Replace the inner stop at this point.


11. Place a little oil on the pulleys and you should have a free working double hung window that will last for a long time to come.