Removing vertical sliding windows, also known as sash windows, involves several careful steps to avoid damage to the window or frame. The process includes preparing the area, removing any stops or balances, and carefully lifting the sashes out of the frame.
Proper technique is essential to ensure a smooth removal, whether you’re replacing the window or performing maintenance. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can remove vertical sliding windows yourself, saving time and money on professional services.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Vertical Sliding Windows
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Before you begin the removal process, it’s crucial to prepare the area around the window to ensure safety and efficiency.
Clear the Space: Move any furniture, decorations, or curtains away from the window area to give yourself enough working space. Lay down a drop cloth or tarp to catch any debris and protect your flooring.
Safety Precautions: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards or sharp edges. If you plan to reuse the window, take extra care not to scratch or damage the glass.
Step 2: Remove Interior Stops and Parting Beads
The next step is to remove the interior stops and parting beads that hold the sashes in place within the frame.
Interior Stops: Use a utility knife to score along the edges of the stops to break any paint or caulk seal. Gently pry the stops away from the window frame using a flat pry bar or putty knife. Be careful not to break the stops if you plan to reuse them.
Parting Beads: These are thin strips of wood or plastic that separate the upper and lower sashes. Once the interior stops are removed, carefully pry out the parting beads. Older windows may have nailed-in beads, while newer models might use snap-in varieties.
Data and Facts: Properly removing the stops and beads without breaking them can save you $20 to $50 per window on replacement parts.
Step 3: Remove the Lower Sash
Once the stops and parting beads are removed, you can begin to remove the lower sash.
Unlock and Raise the Sash: Start by unlocking the window and raising the lower sash a few inches to disengage it from the frame.
Release the Tilt Mechanism: Most vertical sliding windows have a tilt mechanism or release clips located on the sides of the sash. Slide the tilt latches inward or press the release clips to disengage the sash from the track.
Tilt and Lift the Sash: Carefully tilt the lower sash inward at a 90-degree angle. Lift the sash up and out of the frame. Set the sash aside in a safe location.
Step 4: Remove the Upper Sash
After removing the lower sash, you can proceed to remove the upper sash if needed.
Release the Tilt Mechanism: Similar to the lower sash, engage the tilt latches or release clips to disengage the upper sash from the track.
Tilt and Remove the Sash: Tilt the upper sash inward and carefully lift it out of the frame. Place the sash in a secure location.
Step 5: Inspect and Clean the Frame
With both sashes removed, it’s essential to inspect and clean the window frame.
Inspect for Damage: Look for any signs of rot, mold, or structural damage around the window frame. Address any issues before installing a new window or making repairs.
Clean the Frame: Use a brush or vacuum to remove any debris or dirt from the frame. If you plan to repaint or refinish the frame, use a mild detergent and water solution to clean the surfaces thoroughly.
Step 6: Remove the Window Balances (if necessary)
Depending on the window design, you may need to remove the window balances, such as springs, pulleys, or weights.
For Spring or Spiral Balances: Use a flathead screwdriver to disengage the balance system from the frame. Carefully remove the balances from the window tracks.
For Weight-Based Balances: Remove the window casing to access the weight pockets on either side of the frame. Carefully remove the weights and cords.
Data and Facts: Replacing a balance system can cost between $30 to $100 per window, depending on the type and quality.
Step 7: Prepare for Reinstallation or Replacement
Once all components are removed, you can prepare the frame for reinstallation or replacement.
Repair or Refinish: Make any necessary repairs to the frame, such as filling holes or sanding rough areas. If you’re installing a new window, ensure the frame is square and level to accommodate the new unit.
Measurements for New Windows: Measure the width and height of the window opening at three different points (top, middle, and bottom for width; left, middle, and right for height). Use the smallest measurements to order the correct size replacement window.
How to Remove Vertical Sliding Windows from inside?
To remove vertical sliding windows from the inside, you first need to locate the locking mechanism, which is usually a latch or handle, and unlock it. This will allow the sashes to move freely. If your window is equipped with sash stops small tabs or clips designed to hold the sash in place, you’ll need to remove these next. Use a putty knife or a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the sash stops loose.
Be careful not to use too much force to avoid damaging the stops or the window frame. Once the stops are removed, carefully lift the sash upwards until it disengages from the bottom tracks. After that, gently slide the sash out of the tracks and set it aside in a safe place.
How to Remove Screen from Vertical Sliding Windows?
To remove the screen from vertical sliding windows, start by locating the screen’s retention mechanism. Most vertical sliding window screens are held in place by a combination of tension springs and screen clips. First, unlock and open the window to create space to maneuver the screen. Next, examine the sides of the screen frame to find the tension springs, typically located on one side of the screen frame. These springs keep the screen securely in place.
Press the frame gently on the side where the springs are located. This compression should create a gap of about 1/4 inch (6 mm) between the screen frame and the window track on the opposite side. While maintaining pressure on the spring side, tilt the screen frame towards you at a slight angle, approximately 15 to 20 degrees, to release the opposite side from its track. Then, carefully pull the screen out of the window frame, making sure not to bend or warp the screen frame during removal. Once the screen is free from the window frame, lift it away and store it in a safe, flat location to prevent damage. This precise process ensures the screen is removed smoothly and without damage, maintaining its functionality and fit for future use.
