How to Remove Double Hung Windows for Cleaning

Are you a new homeowner and curious about the mechanics of the windows in your house? Or maybe you've owned your home for quite a while and are looking to swap out your outdated window style for something a little more modern. Whatever stage of home ownership you're in, it's always good to know about the windows in your home and how to care for them.

Double hung windows are designed to make cleaning easier and are the most popular style of window amongst homeowners for just that reason. But, if you're having difficulty knowing the difference between single and double hung replacement windows and how to clean them, you're not alone. Many homeowners need a tip or two (or three) on how to remove double hung windows for cleaning. The good news is that this style of window makes it easy to remove and clean them from one vantage point inside your home, rather than having to step outside and get a ladder to give them a good once over. Learning how to remove a window sash, double hung or not, can be daunting, but have no fear: learn more about the basics of various types of windows, and follow the step-by-by instructions below on how to remove and clean your "tilt" windows safely and easily.

Unlock the Latches on the Bottom Sash

You're going to want to start by removing the screens from the windows and then feeling across the bottom window sash for two locked latches. Simply glide your hand along the sash until you hit the raised locks and you're in business. Unlocking these will allow you to slide your bottom window sash up six to eight inches, giving you the room you need to swing the window inward and away from the frame.

Pull the Sash Inward

Next, you'll need to push on the locking tabs (aka sash releases) located on the left and right of the sash, while pulling the bottom window out and inward toward you. Let the lower window rest on the lower sash but be careful not to pull the sash too far; if you hit a 90-degree angle you may accidentally remove it from the frame completely. The goal is to swing the window panel out just far enough to be able to clean it, but not to have it come off the rails. Once the bottom sash is leaning outward at an open angle, you're ready to clean.

Repeat These Steps for the Top Sash

Move to your top sash and repeat these same key steps, unlocking the top latches and pulling the pane towards the interior of your house at an almost 90-degree angle. Let the top sash rest on the lower sash much like the bottom, until you have both windows leaning open-faced toward you.

Clean Your Windows

You now have access to both sides of your windows without having to step foot outside of your home. Forget about rain, snow, sleet, or wind - you have everything you need to clean your windows from inside, without worrying about inclement weather or dangerous conditions. Clean the panes with window cleaner or a vinegar-based solution and then slide both sashes back into their frame and lock them into their original positions. Make sure you hear a distinct "click" as the locking tabs pop back into place.

Double hung, tilted windows are versatile, durable, and energy efficient, with the flexibility to allow for various rates of ventilation and easy access cleaning. Vinyl is strong and will not warp, crack, or bend, and you can choose to open one or both windows for increased air flow. If your home is more modern or is a product of new construction, double hung windows are likely the window type that you'll be working with. Many homes even feature floor to ceiling double hung windows, which offer the same benefits of easy cleaning and maneuvering, just in a larger frame. Unlike single hung windowpanes, double hung vinyl windows are not hard to raise and lower and will help you conserve energy and heat. According to the U.S Department of Energy, "heat gain and loss through windows is responsible for 25% to 30% of residential heating and cooling energy use," so making sure your home is filled with energy-efficient windows is a must.

Find more information about the energy benefits of updating or replacing your windows from the U.S. Department of Energy, and do your research about what type of window may be best for you. Then, if you land on wanting to install side by side double hung windows in your home and need to learn more about their uses and benefits, visit Expo Home Improvement today or contact us for a free consultation.