Sometimes windows simply don’t slide up or down like they should. Many times, this is due to a faulty window spring. Luckily, replacing your window spring is easy to do and only requires a couple tools. Here, our window experts explain how to fix a window spring in both older and newer model windows:
Rod Springs
Many older single-hung windows are fitted with rod springs. These springs are easy to replace.
- First, you’ll want to remove the window pane that’s causing the sliding issue.
- Start by locating the metal latches at the top of the frame that hold the pane in place.
- Unlock the latches and remove the window pane.
- Next, locate the window rods on either side of the frame.
- Remove the rods by pressing down on the top of the rod to compress the spring inside.
- After that, you can pull the top of the rod outward and then unhook the bottom portion from the hook latch inside the frame.
- Inspect the spring inside each rod. If you notice that one is damaged or undone, you’ve found your culprit.
- Remove the spring at fault from the rod by unlatching it.
- Replace the spring with a new one from your local home improvement store.
- After that, secure the rod back into place by reversing the process in steps 5 and 6.
- Put your window pane back in place and make sure it latches into the window frame.
Balance Springs
Many newer single-hung and double-hung windows are fitted with balance springs. These springs are also easy to replace. Here, we explain how to fix a window spring in a double-hung window:
- First, you’ll want to remove both of your window panes.
- Slide your window latches so that the bottom window pane tilts towards you.
- Then, tip one side up and then the other to free the pane from the frame.
- Next, repeat the same process for the other window pane.
- After that, locate the balance spring.
- Place your flathead screwdriver into the balance frame’s brake assembly and turn it 90 degrees. (Make sure you place downward pressure on the screwdriver as you do this.)
- Next, raise the balance spring upward until you feel the pressure release.
- Locate the screw at the top of the spring and use your Phillips-head screwdriver to unscrew it.
- Remove the balance spring from the frame.
- Insert your new balance spring from our local home improvement store and secure by reversing the method in steps 6-8.
- Make sure both balance springs are parallel to the corresponding springs on the other side of the window frame.
- Then, put your window panes back into place beginning with the top pane.