Single hung aluminum window glass repair

Let's talk about repairing broken glass in an aluminum frame single hung window. If it's the lower sash pane that is broken, it must be removed from the inside. You are going to have one of three different mechanisms that hold the lower sash up when you slide it open. If you can't see any mechanisms on the sides, then you have a block and tackle system consisting of a string and spring assembly. Find the thin metal clips in the side jambs just above the sash. Pull the bottom of the clip out using a screwdriver or your fingernail. Do that on both sides. Then remove any rubber stops at the very top of the window. Raise the window as high as it will go. The block and tackle assemblies will get snagged in the metal clips, allowing you to remove the window sash. You would replace the glass using the same method described in our article about sliding window repairs. Once you have the new glass installed, install the window panel in the reverse order that you removed it. Close the window and push the metal clips back. Install the rubber stops at the top.

If you have a mechanism across the top of the window with a string coming down each side and screwed into the top corners of the window sash, you need to remove the screws holding the strings in place. But before you remove the screws, you need to remove one of the black plastic pieces that cover the side jamb. Raise the window all the way up, then put a flat screwdriver at the very bottom of the plastic piece and pull outward until you can grab it with your fingers. Slide the plastic out. Now remove the screws holding the strings. Be sure to hold the string in one hand while removing the screw, because the string is under tension. After removing the screw, let the string slowly go back up. Pull the panel to the side that you removed the black plastic piece, and remove the panel. Remember, two of your corner screws will be removed at this point, and the proper way to remove the frame from the glass is to remove opposite corner screws. So, you should put one of the string screws back in and remove the corner screw opposite the removed string screw. Then, when you install the new glass, remove the string screw and install the strings. Raise the window up and install the black plastic piece by sliding it up between the frame and side jamb.

The final mechanism will be a spiral metal rod. If you have this type, i suggest you have it done by a professional. If you aren't careful with these, you can wind up having to replace the spiral rods. Now, if the broken pane is the upper sash, more than likely it will be a fixed panel. You can take these out without messing with the sliding panel. Unlock the window and raise the lower sash a few inches. Remove the screen, then remove the two screws holding the horizontal bar on place. Tap the bar down in one corner using a hammer and screwdriver. The bar will come off. Then you can grab the bottom of the upper sash and wiggle as you pull the sash downward. Once you have pulled it down several inches, you should be able to grab the top and bottom of the sash and pull to the left or right until the opposite side comes out. Then you can swing the panel out.

Once the new glass is installed, you can put the upper sash back by reversing the removal procedure. Tap the bottom upward with a hammer or rubber mallet, ensuring that the sash is fully seated in the top of the frame. Then, put the horizontal mulling bar back in place and tap it on the sash framer. Install the screws and screen. You're done. Next week we will cover broken glass repair of dual pane windows.

John Rocco has been installing replacement windows since 1978. To learn more, visit How To Install Windows

---

How To Identify A Quality Interior Shutter

1. Shutters have proper louver tensionThe shutters louvers should be... Read More

Security in Todays World

There are many things in life that are worth protecting.... Read More

A Guide to Portable Dehumidifiers

The United States Environmental Protection Agency says that the way... Read More

Color Help: Many Factors Affect Color Preference

Understanding color psychology helps home makers choose colors for home... Read More

Spring Home Projects in Northern New England

As I sit on a plane in route from Chicago... Read More

Professional Asphalt Paving Contractors In California

Choosing an asphalt paving contractor can be a major event... Read More

Do You Know How To Use Window Coverings?

Window coverings serve an important role in your home, giving... Read More

The Art of Ice Dam Removal

You may have noticed long icicles hanging from your gutters... Read More

Conventional Steam Saunas vs. Infrared Saunas

The health benefits of steam saunas have been recognized for... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Two Story Side Extensions - The Common Mistakes

Probably the most common type of residential extension is the... Read More

How to Finance a New Kitchen?

Want to improve the look of your property? Want to... Read More

Repairing Your Faulty uPVC Double Glazed Windows And Doors

It is an amazing fact that uPVC double glazing was... Read More

Interior Design For Couples

Interior design for couples is one of the hottest, most... Read More

Installing a Bathroom Vanity and Countertop

The installation of a new bathroom vanity and countertop can... Read More

Feng Shui, Design Psychology and Bed Placement

I love Feng Shui! Whether you believe this ancient Asian... Read More

Does Your Home Need Concrete Waterproofing?

Many areas of your home can benefit from concrete waterproofing.... Read More

The Great American Dream

Are you ready to starting building your dream home. House... Read More

A Review of Popular Dehumidifier Products

There are at least two dozen brand names marketing dehumidifiers.... Read More

How To Choose House Style Mailboxes

Your mailbox is not simply a receptacle for your mail;... Read More

10 Tips for Working With a Contractor

This is the year you're going all out. You're going... Read More

A Few Concrete Suggestions

Up until a few years ago, my professional experience was... Read More

Planning Permission and Building Regulations for Conservatories in the UK

Do I need planning permission for a conservatory?Do I need... Read More

Prepare for Winter Before It Arrives

Even though we are still enjoying warm weather and winter... Read More

Complete Home Rehab In 10 Days

This report is about taking a house and restoring it... Read More

Bamboo Flooring for the 21st Century

Bamboo flooring has emerged as a new material for the... Read More

11 Tips for Stripping Wallpaper: How to Get Rid of Ugly Wallpaper!

I broke my promise to myself and stripped wallpaper again.... Read More

Modern Rugs

The modern look is a highly admired form of interior... Read More

How Stained Glass Can Add Elegance To Your Home

If there is one way to throw a new light... Read More

Making a Pen with Your New Wood Lathe

So you just purchased a wood lathe but do not... Read More

Get Everything Done Quickly Using Your Basic Tools

No one wants to have their house equipment broken. But... Read More

The Best Time to Inspect Your Home!

Home inspections conducted prior to a home being placed on... Read More

Easy Ways to Increase Your Houses Value

Before getting your house valuated think about the list below... Read More

Add A Room To Your Home With A Patio Awning

Do you need a patio awning for your lovely patio... Read More