A Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Old Wood Double Hung Windows

Safety First: Protect Yourself During Removal

Before you begin the removal process, it's essential to prioritize safety. Equip yourself with safety glasses to shield your eyes from debris and wear gloves to prevent splinters. These simple precautions can prevent injuries and make the process more comfortable.

Understanding the Window Structure

Wood sash double hung windows typically consist of several components:

1. An interior wood stop measuring approximately 3/8" x 3/8".
2. The lower sash, which includes the glass pane and its wooden frame.
3. A parting bead, another wood stop, between the lower and upper sashes, approximately 1/4" x 1/2".
4. The upper sash.
5. An exterior wood stop, known as a blind stop, around 1/2" x 3/4".

Step-by-Step Removal Process

Removing the Interior Stop

The interior stop is the first piece to remove. Carefully pry it away from the frame to avoid damage, as you'll need to reinstall it later. If it does crack, you can find a replacement at a hardware or molding store. To separate a painted-in stop, use a flat screwdriver or putty knife to chip away the paint before prying it off. The number of nails used in the original installation will affect the difficulty of this step.

Extracting the Lower Sash

After removing the interior stops, you can pull out the lower sash. If the windows have been painted shut, you may need to pry them open. The lower sash will be attached to cords—use tin snips to cut these while keeping tension to prevent recoil. Then, set the lower sash aside.

Removing the Parting Bead

The parting bead, which will not be reused, can be removed without as much caution. It's located on the top and sides but never on the bottom. Pry it out with a screwdriver, and once removed, the upper sash will be free to take out. If it's painted to the outside stop, carefully separate it to avoid damage.

Preparing for the New Windows

With both sashes and the parting bead removed, ensure the opening is clear of obstructions like nails or old screen tabs. Scrape the outside blind stops to remove old caulking, creating a smooth surface for the new windows. Clean up any debris, and your window opening is now ready for the new installation.

Upcoming Topics

Stay tuned for our next article, where we'll discuss the installation of your new replacement windows.

Interesting Stats and Facts

While this guide covers the removal of wood double hung windows, it's interesting to note that according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, about one-third of U.S. homes have double or triple-pane windows, which are more energy-efficient than single-pane windows. Moreover, the National Association of Home Builders reports that vinyl windows are chosen in about 67% of new residential construction, highlighting their popularity due to their low maintenance and energy efficiency (U.S. Energy Information Administration, National Association of Home Builders).

By understanding the specifics of window removal and the trends in window replacement, homeowners can make informed decisions that contribute to energy savings and home value.