Double Hung Window Won't Stay Up? (We Have A Fix)

Double hung replacement windows are designed with sturdiness in mind. They are meant to allow ventilation up top, at the bottom, or in both areas. They are the most popular type of window for smaller rooms, but they are not without flaws. They are known for having a problem staying closed, especially with heavier models. So, what can you do with your windows?

A falling double hung window means that your balance shoe is a sign of a broken, unbalanced, or missing balance shoe. To get your double hung window ot stay open, you will need to check the tilt pin, make sure that it fits in the shoe, check the shoe’s position, unlock it, and then screw it closed. If it’s broken, you need to replace it.

Fixing a slippery double hung window is usually pretty easy. In order to do it right, you may need to understand a couple more details about this part. We’ve included all the information you need to know to fix your double hung window that won’t stay up.

If you have an archaic type of double hung window, then you probably won’t have a balance shoe on it. Moreover, you probably aren’t having the problem of having your windows fall shut. Rather, you might have a harder time keeping them from opening all the way. Or, you might have a hard time keeping them shut.

Sounds like what you’re dealing with? If so, you will need to refer to a different guide to get your windows to stay put. In most cases, this just means getting a new locking mechanism or just adjusting the chains or revamping the lock. If this has been an ongoing issue or you’ve noticed that your window has a draft, it may be a good idea to switch it for a better model.

If you’re new to double hung windows, you might not be aware of how to properly use them. You can’t just slide up the window and hope for the best. You need to be able to lock your windows into place. If you haven’t done this yet, you should give it a try. In many situations, this is the only actual fix you’ll need.

You’re going to want to inspect your balance shoe. When it’s in a lock position, you’ll see it have a “U” shape within it. When unlocked, it’s a “C” shape. Now that you know how to tell if it’s unlocked, give it a try. If it’s unlocked, just lock your double hung window and it should be good.

We all have heard scary stories of window repair costs, but this isn’t going to be one of them. If you have a working (but unbalanced) balance shoe, then you will be able to do this free of charge assuming you have a flathead screwdriver. If you need to replace it, then a typical balance shoe set will run about $5 to $15, depending on the model.

People who want to go to a handyman to get help with their repairs will also have to tack on an additional $30 to $40 for replacement services. So, even if you want to go to a pro for this project, you will not have to worry about having too much of an issue paying for it.

Double hung windows can be a serious pain, but that doesn’t mean that you should give up on them. If you have a window that won’t stay open after you lift it up, then you just need to take a look at the balance shoe. In most cases, adjusting the lock with a screwdriver and jiggling the tip pin will give you good results. Can you feel the fresh air already?

This fix is a great thing to know if you’re brand new to owning double hung windows, and it’s one that even newbies can do on their own. You don’t need any special tools to fix a broken balance shoe, nor should you expect the entire endeavor to take more than 10 minutes. This is true, even if you have to replace the balance shoe.

Of course, some folks will always want to have their fixes done or explained by a pro. That’s totally okay, even if it’s not necessary. A fix for most double hung windows will cost at least $30 for a typical handyman to do. Even then, they will probably give you a quick tutorial on how to fix it should your window shut again.