My double / single hung bottom window is too stiff to open and close. How to I fix it?

Question

The window is only 2 years old the open and close function is fine, but it is just too stiff to open and close. It takes a lot of strength.
I've seen someone fixed the problem by doing something on the side frame. Not sure what he did, but it took only seconds. Please help and thank you for your input.

I remember the guy tapped something on the side frame.

Answer 1

If it is not in a bind, and can move freely... it is just too heavy to lift... then you can adjust the tension spring. The tension spring is in the side channel of the window...usually behind a piece of trim. Pop the trim out, and you can access the spring. Some windows are easier to adjust with a tool just for this purpose. Typically, the spring can be wound tighter, to get more lift, or loosened up to drop faster. Both sides need to be about the same amount of tension, to keep the window tracking properly.

On occasion, the clip/retainer that holds the spring in place will break...then you have no tension at all, hehehe... you can usually find replacement parts wherever the windows are sold.

If the window binds any, or does not slide easily, a little furniture wax will help lubricate the track. NOTE - use WAX on the track for VINYL windows.. do NOT use petroleum products (most silicon sprays also contain oil)....the petroleum will attack the vinyl. The vinyl window manufacturers I have worked with all say you will void any warranty by using these types of lubricants, and specifically call for wax product.

If that doesnt work, hold a straight edge up against the frame... all four sides, and check for bind. If the frame bows in on the sides, it will actually pinch the window sash, and keep it from moving. In this case, the frame must be adjusted. Most of these windows are secured from the outside by screws...if they were caulked really well at installation, it may actually be necessary to remove the window, to break the seal (window to exterior wall), and to reset the window in the opening.

Have Fun

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Tapping the side? He may have been trying to force it out just a bit. Use that straight edge... hold it up against the side of the window, and see if the frame bows in at the middle. Check both sides. If it does bow in at the middle... it needs to be adjusted. Trim will have to be removed on the inside, to look for shims at that location, or expanded foam (Ive seen some people use too much foam and it actually forces the window frame to bow inwards). If the problem is foam, it can be gouged out pretty easily. If there is no foam, or shims, and the frame side is bowed in at the middle, the window will need to be adjusted/reset. I'd start by removing the retaining screws (from outside), down the sides of the window, and see if the frame sides pop back. If necessary, remove all the screws, and pull the window out of the opening. Re-caulk the opening, and re-set the window. Make sure the frame is square, and not in a bind. Then replace the trim, and any siding/exterior trim you had to remove to get to it... .all told this should take an hour or less.

Windows and doors can become bound from the frame openings moving. Movement usually occurs from a home settling... all homes do this. Homes with little to no foundation will do it more. Any competent handyman can fix this for you, if you don't want to tackle it yourself. I used to travel quite a bit, fixing this type of thing. If the frame has shifted, then a simple tap won't work this time...it will take you just as long to check for bow as it will to tap the frame, hehe

Again... Have Fun

Answer 2

Window Sash Tension Spring

Answer 3

Most window sizes are the rough in size. If you measure a 3/0x6/0 window you should find it will be 3/4" under. If not add 3/4-1" for insulation and shimming and same for the door.

Answer 4

put soap on it or wax at the sides