Wood Windows

• 1). Lift the window up if possible. If not, run a sharp scraper along the joints between the sides of the bottom sash and the jamb. Work the scraper in between the two parts to cut old paint or residue that may be holding the window down.
  
  
• 2). Check the sides and top of the sash for screws or nails that may be holding the window closed. Remove screws with a cordless drill and screw bit. Remove nails with a flat nail bar. Once fasteners are released, lift the window.
  
  
• 3). Raise the window up and let it rest. If it stays up and will go down with light pressure, the repair is complete. If the window falls closed or requires heavy pressure to close, proceed to the next step.
  
  
• 4). Remove the window stop from the jambs. Window stop is the vertical flat trim at either side of the window. Use the flat nail bar to pry it away from the window. Do this on both sides.
  
  
• 5). Lift the sash from the window and release the two ropes from the top corners of the window. Pull the knotted end from the notch in the side edge of the window. Sand the sides of the window smooth with a sander and 120 grit sandpaper.
  
  
• 6). Check the channel in the jamb where the window slides for nail heads, built-up paint or other debris that might hinder the window from going up or down properly. Scrape the face of the jamb with the scraper to remove any obstructions. Rub a bar of soap along the surface to provide lubrication. Do the same with the side edges of the window sill.
  
  
• 7). Test the ropes for proper operation. The rope should have some resistance when pulled and roll easily back over the pulley. If the rope is stuck, or has no resistance, pry the trim away from the wall on that side of the window with the nail bar. Check the rope to make sure it is attached to the weight. Oil the pulley with spray lubricant. Replace the rope if needed with ½ inch nylon, cut to the same length as the original.
  
  
• 8). Replace the sash in the window, reinserting the knotted ends of the ropes in the notches on the sides. Realign the window stop and tap the nails back into place with a hammer.
  
  

Modern Replacement Windows

• 1). Test the window in the same way. If the window is painted, use the scraper to cut any excess paint from the frame. Check for screws holding the window closed. Also look at the top of the window for nylon lock blocks. Remove the screw from the center of the block.
  
  
• 2). Remove screws from the window stop on the sides to remove the trim. Lift the sash from the frame and release the clips holding the steel ribbon springs to the top corners of the sash. Lift the sash clear of the window frame.
  
  
• 3). Test the spring by pulling firmly on the clips. The spring should extend with light pressure and spring back when released. If the spring does not extend or spring back, replace the spring with a new cartridge. Remove the two screws and pry the spring cartridge gently from the jamb. Insert the new spring and reinstall the screws, turning them clockwise to tighten.
  
  
• 4). Replace the sash by clipping the springs back to the top corner of the sash. Set the sash into the frame and realign the window stop molding. Reinstall the screws and tighten them with the screwdriver.