Windows Won't Stay Open? Here's How To Fix Them!

How To Fix Common Window Problems

When you're ready for a little fresh air and you decide to open a window the last thing you want is for it to fall closed right after. Unfortunately, some windows can shut without warning or just slowly slide closed, especially if they’re older.

If you’re up for a little DIY repair, we can help you fix a window that won’t stay open. This step-by-step guide will help you fix those annoying windows that seem to have a mind of their own.

Reasons Why Windows Won’t Stay Open

Ever feel like you’re playing a losing game of open and shut with your windows? Here are a few reasons your windows might not be staying open.

1. Window Problem: Faulty Window Pivot Bar

The pivot bar is a basic piece that connects the balances of the window sash, holding it in place when it’s open. When the pivot bar is damaged, your windows won’t stay open.

Window Problem: Window Shoe Needs Repair

Window shoes are metal or plastic blocks inside your window frame. If the window shoe is broken, the pivot bar can’t hold the window in its proper place. Another simple fix involving the window shoe could be that it needs to be adjusted and realigned

3. Window Problem: Broken Window Balances

Window balances come in three types

These should be held in place with one or two screws. If they're broken, the window sash may not be aligned properly, therefore the window falls when you try to open it.

If there's a problem with your windows fix these broken pieces.

There’s a good chance that if your windows are not staying up, it’s because there is a problem with one (or more) of these pieces. That means, replacing the broken piece should have your windows working in no time!

An Easy To Follow Guide To Fixing A Window That Won’t Stay Open

Let’s dig in and take a look at how to fix a double-hung window that won’t stay open. In fact, you can use the same process for fixing a single-hung window as well. Here’s our step-by-step guide.

How To Fix A Window - Step 1: Remove the sash

First, you need to remove the window sash. The shash is the part of the window that holds glass in place. Double-hung windows have two sashes (top and bottom), and single-hung windows only have one. In a double-hung window the sashes slide up and down so the window can open from the top or bottom.

If your window won’t stay open, it's usually the lower sash that is broken. However, no matter which sash needs to be looked at, you can use a screwdriver to take off the stops inside the window frame, then tilt the sash toward you to remove it. Remember to move any window coverings before you start working so they don’t get tangled or damaged during your repairs.!

How To Fix A Window - Step 2: Examine the pivot bar

Once the shash(es) have been removed, look in the bottom corners. This is where the pivot bar is located.

As noted earlier, if the pivot bar is damaged you should remove and replace it. If that's all that is wrong with your window, the good news is that your window is now fixed!

If the pivot bar looks okay, move on to the next step.

How To Fix A Window - Step 3: Check the window balances

Sometimes, the balances can be a little hard to see. They are usually found inside the window’s frame. They are small metal pieces or rods, check them for excessive wear or signs of damage. If they are broken, replace them with identical style pieces – as mentioned above there are 3 types of window balances. Most window balances can be found at home improvement stores.

Replacing a broken window balance:

If the pivot bar and balances are fine, the problem could be with the window shoe.

How To Fix A Window - Step 4: Finding the shoe and tilt pins

Locate the balance shoe in your window. In a double-hung window, the balance shoe is often found at the bottom of the frame.

Also, locate the tilt pins – each window sash should have one on each side within the balance shoe. You can identify a tilt pin by looking for a piece of metal with a “U” shape.

How To Fix A Window - Step 5: Unlock shoes and reset pins

When a tilt pin looks like a “U” this means the shoe is locked. To unlock it, use a flat head screwdriver. Place it at a vertical angle inside the tilt pin and turn it 45° to force it into an unlocked position. An unlocked tilt pin will look like a “C” instead of a “U”.

Next, move the shoe two inches from the bottom of the lower sash, then relock the pin into a “U” shape using a screwdriver.

How To Fix A Window - Step 6: Adjust the lower sash

Now that the balance shoe is reset, tilt the lower sash out and realign the bottom of the window with the shoe. Depending on your window type, you may need to remove the tilt latches located at the top of the sash.

Push the window sash into place until you hear it click slightly. This means that the balance and tilt pins have successfully re-engaged.

Step 7: Test out your window repairs

Now it’s time to test out your handiwork. Snap the lower sash into place, make sure the tilt latches are hooked in the frame, and lift the window sash up and down. If you remove your hands and the sash stays in place, it’s fixed!

Florida Windows That Won’t Stay Open

Sometimes, old windows just won’t stay open, no matter what you try. In these cases, it’s often time to replace your windows with new ones. Modern windows offer lots of great benefits, like improved style, energy efficiency, and better protection for your home.

If you need help fixing your windows or are looking for a window replacement quote contact Central Window Sales today 1 (863) 293-2977 Our goal is making sure you love your windows!