Step-By-Step Instructions For How To Repair Double-Hung Windows
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If you have double-hung windows in your house, sooner or later they will need to be repaired. Double-hung windows are balanced with weights that are attached to either side of the windows with rope. The rope is routed over the pulleys in the upper window track. When the windows are raised the weights drop inside a channel which counter balances the window, holding it in place. Sooner or later these ropes will need to be replaced and the windows repaired. Here are step-by-step instructions for how to repair your double-hung windows.
Step 1 Gather Supplies and Tools
To repair your double-hung windows you will need: a hammer, screwdriver, pry bar, utility knife, sash cord or rope, 6D finishing nails and a can of WD-40.
Step 2 Pry the parting strip and the interior stops away with your pry bar.
If the paint has sealed the stops into place, use your utility know to remove them.
Step 3 Remove the top and bottom sashes from the window jam and remove the old sash cord.
You can cut the sash cords with your utility knife.
Step 4 Remove the weights
Using your screwdriver, open the access panel of the window jamb. Lift the weights out of the wall cavity. Remove any old cord from the wall cavity, weights and pulleys. Spray some WD-40 on the pulley wheels to help keep them lubricated.
Step 5 Replace the old cords
Replace the old window cords with new nylon cord over the top of the pulleys. Thread the new cord through the wall and to the access panel. Then tie the cord ends to the weights and put back into the bottom of the wall cavity.
Step 6 Knot the window cords
Pulling the cords taut, cut the cord about 4 inches from top of pulleys. Knot the cord and push into slots that are on each side of the sash. Be sure the knots are placed so that the inner window sash is able to move the length of the window jamb unimpeded.
Step 7 Replace window sashes
First replace top sash by nailing a parting strip into its slot. Then replace the bottom slot. Also replace access panel if needed. Check to make sure there is good sliding action. You can rub wax on the edges of the window sashes for smooth sliding.
Step 8 Replace the trim and interior stops
Nail stops in place with your hammer. The stops should not rub against sash, but they should hold sashes tightly in place.
If you follow these step-by-step instructions, you will have your double-hung windows repaired in no time at all.
