How to Remove a Double Hung Window Sash
Introduction
A double-hung window sash is the historical style of the window – combining two vertically sliding sections that are controlled by a handle. This type of window was widely used until about 1940 when it began to be replaced with casement and awning windows. The reason for this replacement had more to do with the preferences of manufacturers than consumers, as casements and awnings were cheaper to make than double-hung due to their lack of moving parts.
During World War II, many traditional double-hung windows were destroyed or altered, making them much rarer today. Double-hung windows can come in almost any size, from small fan lights on top of a door to enormous casement windows spanning an entire wall. Today, I will discuss how to remove a double-hung window sash for the renovation of your house.
Functions of a Double Hung Window Sash
The double-hung sash was a type of window that was very functional. It provided a lot of fresh air for the house, prevented rain and snow from entering, and allowed easy cleaning with minimal hassle. Some people may find them more difficult or expensive to repair than other types of windows, but they are relatively easy to repair if you have the right tools and know what to do.
Types of Windows
There are two types of double-hung windows: wood sash and vinyl. Wood sash windows are more likely to get damaged, but they don’t usually have surface cracks. Vinyl windows are less likely to get damaged, but they can get surface cracks. If you think your window is not working properly, you should get professional help right away.
Window repair companies can help determine whether or not your problem lies with the windows themselves or another thing entirely, which could save you a lot of time and headaches.
Issues With Double Hung Window Sash
The double hung window sash is a common design for windows today. This type of window can make it easy to open and close your windows, especially if you want to clean the inside or outside of your windows.
Double hung windows are good because they let air flow through your home while still keeping intruders out. However, like anything else, they can have problems if they are not taken care of properly.
Here are some things you need to know about this type of window and the issues.
Window Movements and Functions
Double hung windows have two parts that open and close. They are good because they let air flow through your home while still keeping intruders out. However, like anything else, they can have problems if they are not taken care of properly.
The upper part of the window can be moved both left and right, as well as up and down. However, this depends on whether there is an inside crank handle on the window. If there is a handle, then the window can be moved freely in either direction. If there is no handle, then the window can only be moved up and down.
However, if your windows have an outside crank handle, you will find that your sash will not open up fully to the left or right, and there is definitely nothing full motion out to the sides. Again, this is due to a restriction caused by the sash below it being stationary.
You need to operate both cranks at once to allow the upper window sash to move freely in all directions when opened or closed. While this may not be impossible, it definitely takes more effort than having inside handles only (or side opening windows without cranks). Therefore, many homeowners tend to choose their crank handle locations based on convenience (one crank per side).
If you want to avoid problems, make sure the crank handle on your window is on the inside. Having the crank on the outside can be risky, especially if you’re not aware of it. This can prevent you from opening or closing your windows if there’s something blocking the way, like snow.
Step-wise Guide on How to Remove a Double Hung Window Sash
- Before you start removing the window sash, check to see a screen inside the window frame. If there is one, remove it and keep it safe for later use.
- Mark all parts of the windowsill where screws go in so that you will know where to install new ones once your window sash is removed and before installing the new sash as well.
- It’s time now to remove double-hung windows screens! There are several types of screws used in different places on most double-hung window screens: screw-in type, bolt-on type, or rivets (holes with crescent ends). First, remove both upper and lower rails using either a Phillips head screwdriver or an adjustable wrench, depending on the kind of screw used.
- Place the screen from below to hang by its weight on one side of the windowsill, using a pencil or any other heavy object to hold it in place. At this time, remove all screws at that end and then pull out the rail on that side while holding the screen with your hands from outside. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for all sides of the window frame until you have removed all rails or screens inside the frame!
- Now remove both sashes (the upper and lower) held together by several screws located near each corner of both sashes roughly 1 inch away from their edges. Keep track of where these screws go because they will be needed later during installation once you have removed the sash. Once you’ve removed all screws at one end of the window, gently lift out the lower sash from below and remove it carefully so that no damage is caused to the wall frame or other parts of the window, which can be damaged if not handled carefully.
- Remove existing glass panes by first removing their frames using an adjustable wrench or any tool having a grip like jaws, hand pliers, etc., and then pry them out with your hands once they are loose enough. To do so! Remember: take precautions when removing glass panes because some of these panes can be really heavy! Clampdown support for the bottom pane from underneath and a top pane in case something goes wrong while taking out either pane!
- To remove the open sash, you have to start at the bottom of the upper sash and gently pull it out a little bit while holding onto its edge, as otherwise, some wall damage would occur if pulled too hard or fast from its topside! In the same way, when removing the lower sash, support it from underneath with large clamps through which you can then pry out the old frame without any problem.
- On locating new window sashes (that should be purchased based on measurements taken in the measurement step mentioned above), unscrew their frames carefully and install them just like before during installation. Still, this time reverse sequence: first place inside bottom sash followed by upper one on the outside, then tighten screws that hold both sides of the sashes together. Remember to put in screws at the corners of both new windows’ frames as well!
- Install new glass panes by first inserting them into their respective window frames using a hammer or any other tool having a grip like jaws, hand pliers, etc., and then secure them tightly from outside with nails on all 4 sides (top, bottom and 2 sides). Frame corners should also be fixed properly to the wall frame!
- Finally, use an adjustable wrench or screwdriver to tighten all screws that were removed during the removing process for double-hung windows screens so that your installation is complete and you can enjoy viewing through your newly installed window glass pane and have no more problems with it in the future!
Precautions While Performing How to Remove a Double Hung Window Sash:
- 1The first thing you should do is turn off the power to your house if it’s a double-hung window that opens out, and consult with your local hardware store to see if they have another product that will be better for removing the sash without damaging the woodwork.
- Use garden gloves when handling the glass of any windows during installation or removal.
- Decide whether you want to remove both sashes as one piece or just one at a time if there are other things inside like screen or storm windows (for single hung).
- If you are doing this alone, take a few pictures before starting so if something happens, you can remember how it went together. It always helps to have a diagram when going through problems.
- It’s better to work through the window opening from the inside, but if you are alone, it may be safer to do this the rom outside so that you will not be severely injured in the event of a fall. While trying to remove the sashes try using something small like a putty knife or flat head screwdriver as leverage under the bottom of each sash (noting that they usually stick together fairly well).
How to Repair Sash Windows
Sometimes there requires repairing sash windows. There are some easy steps included in this process. These steps are discussed below.
Get the Sash Out:
Remove all the sash windows and store them somewhere safe. Make sure that no one is standing or near the windows when removing the sash window. When you remove a solid wood material double-hung window, put some screws around the glass area. This will prevent any sudden fall down of glass pieces over someone if not handled properly.
Free the Glass:
Now, if the sash window has any blocked-up stuff in between it to provide stability, then remove that from the glass. For this, you will need a utility knife. Please read all the instructions included on the package of your utility knife first before using it. When you are done with that, put some water over the closed window and spread it out evenly to find out whether any other material is blocking between them or not.
You should try harder to remove the parts that you aren’t satisfied with by putting more power into your blade and applying more pressure. You should also hold down the sash with one hand while doing this so that you don’t trip over your legs. Keep repeating this process until you are satisfied with the results.
Clean Out the Joints:
To put your window back together, first make sure that the glass is clean and that there is no blockage between the glass. Next, use a dry rag to clean up any sawdust that may have fallen on the window from removing the sash. When you are finished, start assembling the window back together again.
But don’t forget to keep a screwdriver or any handy tool for that matter nearby just in case if something gets stuck while assembling it back together. This can be easily fixed by taking out whatever got stuck and replacing it inside after putting it in properly this time.
Apply the Epoxy:
If there are areas of your sash window that are stuck, you can apply some epoxy to those areas. First, clean the area with a dry rag. Then, apply the epoxy. Make sure to do this before you apply any force to the window, so that you don’t accidentally break anything.
In order to avoid a glass falling on someone, you need to remember to put the screw back in place. This will also help if something goes wrong during the final assembly process.
Finally, always apply silicone around the joint to keep it water-resistant as well as increasing its lifespan.
Prime the Sash:
If you want to make your sash windows last longer, you should primer them with a moisture-resistant primer. This will help protect the windows from moisture and other damage. Make sure to do this step last, or else the glass may get stuck onto the joints.
Rehang the Sash:
After you have done all the steps, you can put the window sashes back together. You can use a drill if you need to, but be careful not to overdo it.
To fix a broken window, first find all the pieces of the window. Put the pieces back in place while applying force until they fit together snugly. Once all the pieces are in place, your window will look brand new!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can All Window Sashes Be Removed?
Yes, all window sashes can be removed. Window sashes are typically installed in a window frame and hold the glass in place. They are usually attached to the window by screws or nails that go through the sash and into the framing.
To remove a window sash, first, remove any screws or nails holding it in place. Then, use a pry bar to pull the sash out of the frame gently. Be careful not to damage the frame or glass while removing the sash.
What Is a Sash Spring Bolt?
A Sash Spring Bolt is a type of fastener that is used to secure a window or door. It consists of two parts: the arm and the spring. The arm has a screw thread on one end and a bolt head on the other. The spring fits the bolt head and compresses it, holding the window or door in place.
What Are Spring Bolts Used for?
Spring bolts are used to secure objects together. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and wood.
Can You Just Replace Window Sash?
There are a few ways to replace window sash. You can buy a new one, or you can repair it.
If you buy a new one, make sure to choose a quality window sash that will last for years. The best option would be to go with an aluminum or fiberglass window sash because they are both weatherproof and durable.
If you decide to repair your window sash, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. First, make sure that the area around the window is clean and free of any debris so that the sealant will stick properly. Second, use a sealant specifically designed for windows and door seals. Third, wait until the sealant has dried completely before opening the window or door. Fourth, always use caution when working with doors and windows because they can be dangerous if not handled correctly.
Conclusion
I hope you have obtained a clear idea of how to remove a double hung window sash. Of course, you have to be very careful while performing the process. Thank you and have a nice day!
Please leave a reply if the article on how to remove a double hung window sash is helpful to you.
Angela Ervin
Angela is the executive editor of DIY quickly. She began her career as an interior designer before applying her strategic and creative passion to lifestyle and home. She has close to 15 years of experience in creative writing and online content strategy for housekeeping, home decorations as well as other niche efforts. She loves her job and has the privilege of working with an extraordinary team. She lives with her husband, two sons, and daughter in Petersburg. When she's not busy working she spent time with her family.
