Resource Center

Operation & Maintenance

Congratulations on your new Window World windows. A few quick tips are all you need to know to get lots of enjoyment from your purchase for years to come.

Operating Double-Hung Windows

Your Double-Hung or Single-Hung windows feature either one or two tilt-in sash for easy cleaning and servicing. The basics of operating your windows are described below:

Watch Instructional Video

Moving Sash:

1. Make sure the window is unlocked (the lock(s) should be turned to the right)
2. For the bottom sash: pull up on the lift rail (located at the foot of the sash)
3. For the top sash in Double-Hungs: pull down on the lift rail (located at the head of the sash)

Tilting In Sash:

1. Unlock the window (locks should be turned to the right)
2. Lift the bottom sash about half way up
3. Using both hands, slide the catch mechanisms (located on the top of the sash outside the lock(s)) towards the center of the window
4. Tilt the sash towards you
5. Rest the sash on the sill
6. To place the sash back in the frame, tilt it toward the frame until the catches snap back into place on both sides

With a Double-Hung window, the top sash can also be tilted in. To do so, first tilt in the bottom sash, following steps 1-5 above. Then:

1. Lower the top sash about half way
2. Using both hands, slide the catch mechanisms (located on the top of the sash on the uppermost-face) towards the center of the window
3. Tilt the sash towards you

Locking Your Window

1. First, check to make sure the lock(s) are in the unlocked position, that is, turned to the right
2. With a Double-Hung window, make sure the top sash is firmly pushed all the way to the top of the frame
3. Push down on the bottom sash to ensure it’s all the way at the bottom of the frame
4. Turn the lock(s) to the left

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Operating Sliding Windows

The basics of operating your new sliding windows are described below:

Watch Instructional Video

Sliding the Sash:

1. Make sure the window is unlocked (the locks should be turned up)
2. Pull the sash to the right or left, depending on how you want the window to open

Locking Your Window:

1. First, check to make sure the lock(s) are in the unlocked position, that is, turned up
2. Make sure the slider is fully shut: both sash should be firmly pushed into their right-most and left-most positions
3. Turn the lock(s) down to the locked position

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Maintenance Best Practices

Once your new windows are installed, you’ll want to care for them so that they’ll continue to look great for years to come. Help them stay good as new by following the tips below.

Watch Instructional Video

Best Practices:

• A minimum semi-annual cleaning is recommended
• For the frame and sash, start with just water and a soft cloth. If necessary, you can use a mild cleaner
• If lubrication is needed, use a silicone spray
• Screens can be cleaned easily with the soft brush accessory of a vacuum
• Tracks can be washed with a small, stiff nylon brush, then wiped down with a soft cloth. It is important to ensure that the tracks are free of dirt, leaves, sand, grease, and other outdoor elements as they can be ground into the vinyl tracks when the sash are operated
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions

Avoid:

• Power washers or high-pressure sprays; the force of the liquid could damage the caulking around the window, which ensures water-tightness
• Liquid grease remover, strong soaps and detergents containing organic solvents, nail polish, paint remover, furniture polish, or cleaners containing chlorine bleach, as these substances are potentially damaging to the surface of the vinyl
  • Even mildly abrasive cleaners like Soft Scrub can scratch the surface of the glass or Window frame: avoid the use of any abrasive agent
• Sharp objects during the cleaning process
• Oil-based spray lubricants such as WD-40, as they attract dirt
• Painting or varnishing vinyl windows

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Troubleshooting

Many of the most common concerns that come up with replacement windows are easily dealt with using simple, at-home techniques. These methods are explained in the text and videos below.

Condensation

You may notice moisture on the inside surface of your windows, especially during colder months. This is not an indication of faulty windows; rather, it’s a sign that your windows are doing their job. During the winter, we usually close our windows, sealing the home against cold air. Humidity is trapped inside, and unlike old, drafty windows, your new windows do not allow the moist air to leak out. Condensation occurs when the water vapor in the air meets the cold surface of the window and cannot escape. This is why many times, condensation begins to appear after window replacement. Controlling indoor humidity can help reduce condensation.

Watch Instructional Video

Tips for Controlling Indoor Humidity:

1. Make sure all sources of ventilation to the outside are functional, such as kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room exhaust fans
2. Air out your home periodically by opening your windows, if only for just a few minutes in the winter
3. If you have a humidifier, make sure its comfort settings are correct
4. Make sure all louvers to the attic and basement are open
5. If you have lots of house plants, try to concentrate them in one area
6. Consult a qualified HVAC contractor if the problem persists

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Dropping Windows

Sometimes, especially after being moved during cleaning, a window sash can become disengaged from its balancer in the frame track, often referred to as the "shoe." When the window is open, this detachment will cause the sash to drop from its heightened position in the frame. Each sash has a pin on both ends that connects it to the frame; fixing the issue is as simple at guiding the pins back into their shoes.

Watch Instructional Video

Fixing Dropping Windows

1. Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the indent of the exposed metal shoe and give it a quarter turn (the indent should now be perpendicular to the window frame)
2. Keeping the screwdriver in the shoe, allow the shoe to guide you up the frame to a few inches under the sash
3. Using the screwdriver, reset the shoe to the vertical position (the indent will be parallel with the window frame)
4. Move the sash down to the shoe and tilt it in
5. Balance the sash with one hand in the middle and push down the sides (where the sash connects to the frame) to lock the pin into the shoe
6. Tilt the sash back and move it up a few inches to ensure the shoe is now engaged (the track should be empty)
7. Lock the window

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Window Seal Failure & Glass Breakage

Windows that appear foggy could be suffering from seal failure, where outside air has penetrated the space between the two panes of glass and condensation develops. Unfortunately, once seal failure occurs, there is very little that can be done to repair the sash. Similarly, if the glass in a sash has been compromised, the best solution to maintain the integrity of the window is to replace the sash.

Window World customers have the peace of mind of knowing that they have an industry-leading warranty. If seal failure or glass breakage occurs, we can have a replacement sash specially manufactured to fit your window. Simply give us a call!

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Locating Your Serial Number

Your Window World windows were made just for you, that’s why the serial number label on every one of your new windows is so important. If you need service, please locate the serial number on your window before you call your local Window World. This information will allow us to identify your window and quickly take care of the issue. To help locate your serial number, choose your product from the list below to view the instructional video:

• Awning Windows


• Bay or Bow Windows


• Casement Windows


• Double Hung Windows


• Hopper Windows


• Patio Doors


• Single Hung Windows


• Slider

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