vinyl windows won't stay open

[Brian616]

I have a problem with a few of my windows, and I'm not sure if it's fixable or if they need replacing. They are your basic vinyl models, and they won't stay open by themselves- I have to prop them. Has anyone had this issue? Recommendations?

[billy ross]

I have a problem with a few of my windows, and I'm not sure if it's fixable or if they need replacing. They are your basic vinyl models, and they won't stay open by themselves- I have to prop them. Has anyone had this issue? Recommendations?

Are the prongs on the windows themselves hooked into the balancers? Tilt the window down (in), into the room, and observe how it goes up and down. Essentially make the window horizontal and then raise and lower it in a level fashion. You should quickly see what is the matter. The balancers are spring-loaded and they're supposed to provide enough resistance that you need to add effort to get the windows to go up or down. They're either not hooked in (easy fix) or broken (good luck finding matches).

[Worm]

If the screws are screwed in too tightly, it may have pulled the window away from the frame and dis-engaged one of the springs.

[HomeInspectorBC]

Hello and Happy Wednesday,

The first step is too check to make sure the springs are secured into the window shoes and follow the steps Billy Ross mentioned above. If the springs are secured to the shoes then the springs themselves may need to be tightened, they sell spring tighteners at Ace Hardware and one of their sales people should be able to show you how to use this handy little device for owners of vinyl windows. If the springs have to be replaced Oregon Windows on Oregon Avenue in South Philly is a good resource or tension springs that are installed on the sides of the windows is also a very affordable way to go. There are various options available to repair the windows that are much more cost effective then replacing them.

Here's an energy efficiency tip for owners of double hung windows, make sure to lock the windows in the summer and winter months when using central air conditioning or heating as the top sashes have a tendency to slide down a little bit leaving a gap at the top of the window for cold or hot exterior air to enter the house causing drafts that is not usually noticeable due to blinds/curtains other window dressings.

Good luck with your home improvement project,

[Brian616]

Thanks guys. The tension springs seem like the way to go. These are smallish windows that don't get a lot of use, and it would be a shame to have to replace them.