The charm of an older home can really win you over. But when it comes to dealing with old windows that won’t stay up, that means more work for you as a homeowner. There are a number of things you can do to try and fix those older windows and try to get them back in working order, but investing in new energy-efficient windows can also be a really smart investment.
Call on local home improvement experts—like Master Seal—to assess the conditions of your windows and advise you on your options for either extending the life of your existing windows or investing in new window installation in Baltimore, Maryland. Call us at 855.608.1580 or reach out to us online for a free estimate.
What to Do When Windows Won’t Stay Up
A common problem with old windows—built without the advantages of modern technology—is that the top or bottom sash does not stay in place when the window is opened. This can be especially frustrating in the warm weather months when you are looking for fresh air and ventilation. There are some DIY methods you can try to troubleshoot the issue before calling in a handyman or window expert.
The first thing to do is figure out the reason the window is not staying up. These can include:
- An inoperable pivot bar – This is the piece that connects the top and bottom sash of the window and if it is broken or damaged, it’s not doing its job.
- Broken window shoes – The shoes are blocks inside the window frame. If this is damaged, the pivot bar cannot grab it and hold the window in place when open.
- Damaged balances – If the balances are not held in place with screws, or they are broken, then the window sash does not operate as it should and can easily fall.
Replacing any of these broken pieces can be an easy fix, but if not, then it’s time to consider replacing the windows.
Fixing Old Windows That Will Not Stay Up
Fixing windows that won’t stay up can be done on your own if you determine it’s a part or piece that can be easily replaced to fix the issue. Here are some general steps to take to address common issues.
Window Sash
In a typical older double-hung window, the bottom sash is the culprit if the window will not stay open. To remove a window sash, you can use a screwdriver to first remove the window stops from the window frame. This will allow you to pull the sash toward you and remove it.
Pivot Bar
Once a sash is removed, you can access the pivot bars in the corners of the window frame. If one of these is damaged in any way, it needs to be replaced.
The Balances
These are not as easy to locate, but the balances are right inside a window frame. They will look like small metal pieces (sometimes rods) and if they look damaged or not in working order then they could be your culprit and should be replaced. To access them you may need to remove the window stops at the top of the window frame in order to get the sash to open high enough.
The Balance Shoe and Tilt Pin
Double-hung windows have balance shoes at the bottom of the window frame. Within the shoes are tilt pins and there should be one on either side of the shoe.They should be in a U shape to be in the locked position. To remove and replace them you will have to rotate them to a C position and then once re-installed, make sure they are back to a locked position.
Once you put the window sash back in place, it should “pop” and that means the shoe and tilt pins are engaged correctly and the window should operate effectively and stay up when open.
Replace Your Windows Today — Choose Master Seal
Even if you are able to fix your old windows successfully, planning ahead for new windows is a good idea. Having a plan in place for the near future will set you up for a seamless process when the time comes.
Master Seal has been a trusted name for home improvement needs in the Baltimore area for 20 years. New windows of all kinds, storm and entry doors, as well as pilasters and pediments, are available. Call our expert window team today at 855.608.1580 or connect online to address your home improvement needs.
