Care
and operation of vinyl single-hung windows
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Care and operation of vinyl single-hung windows
Opening and Closing the Window
Your vinyl single-hung window system is designed with an integral lifting rail for easy operating of the moving sash. This lift rail is a small edge that extends to the inside of the house and spans the entire width of the sash. Use this to raise and lower the sash. Avoid pushing or pulling on the other sides of the sash. Use both hands to apply pressure at the ends, not in the center of the lift rail. This will maximize the ease of operation and ensure the longevity of the operating mechanisms.
Locking the Window
Be sure the operating sash is in its fully closed position. If not, the lock and latch location will not align properly and the window may be difficult to lock. Locate the locking position on the meeting rail of the window. With your finger, move the knife latch horizontally until it points in the opposite direction. If the locking mechanism does not move freely, your window may not be fully closed. Lift the lower sash, close the window tightly and try again. To unlock the window, merely move the knife latch to its original position.
Cleaning the Glass (Tilting Sash Feature)
Your single-hung vinyl window system is designed with a tilt-in function of the operating sash. Begin by raising the sash approximately 6 inches from its closed position. Locate the tilt latches on either end of the top member of the operating sash. Simultaneously, push both finger tip buttons toward the center of the glass unit. Gently lower the sash until it rests on the sill. You are now able to clean the exterior surface of the glass. Keep the pivot mechanism of the sash and the sash itself as level as possible during the tilting operation. Improper tilting can cause the sash to disengage from the balance system. Be careful not to let the sash drop freely to the interior of the home. During the cleaning operation, be sure not to press too hard while the sash is resting on the sill. Both of these conditions can break the glass in the tilted sash. When returning the sash to its upright position, retract the tilt latches, swing the sash into its operating position and release the tilt latches to engage the jambs.
Cleaning the Exterior of the Fixed Lite
Gienow does not recommend cleaning the exterior surface of the fixed lite panel from the inside of your home. This panel should be cleaned from the exterior of the home with a hose and squeegee. For windows located out of reach or on the second floor, use a squeegee with a telescoping handle extension.
Lubrication
The operating sash of your vinyl single-hung window moves vertically in the track. This track is exposed to outside elements and can collect dust, dirt and debris. A semi annual cleaning with a vacuum is recommended to prevent this material from disturbing the proper operation of the window system. Normal lubrication is not required on the sash balance mechanism located inside the jamb on either side of the window. If necessary, a light coat of spray silicone or household bar soap may be applied to the coil balance shoe track to ensure easy operation.
Screen Removal
- Raise the bottom sash fully
- Gently pull the plastic tabs by applying force on each tab away from the window frame until the screen clears the window frame
- Bring the screen into the room by tilting it through the window opening
- To replace the screen, reverse this procedure
Note: Screens are for inset protection only and are not meant to provide safety protection for children