A dropped double hung window in Singapore can be extremely dangerous. It can slam shut by itself and may hurt your kids or the elderly who might be sneaking outside the windows.
Besides, it can also make the room too hot in the summer and too cool in the winter season, making you uncomfortable.
So, how to fix a dropped double hung window in Singapore? The best thing is that you can do it yourself. Let us teach you step by step how you can do that. LS Window Repair Services Singapore expert in window hinge replacement, HDB window, and window handle replacement services in Singapore.
Why Fix A Dropped Double Hung Window In Singapore?
You should fix your dropped-double hung window in Singapore because it:
- Keeps your family safe from sudden window slams.
- Lets in fresh air to cool your home naturally.
- Helps reduce mold and dampness in humid weather.
- Saves you money on costly repairs later.
- Makes your home look neat and well-kept.
- Restores proper function so windows open and close smoothly.
- Keeps pests and rain from sneaking in.
- Gives you peace of mind knowing it’s no longer a hazard.
How To Fix a Dropped Double Hung Window in Singapore?
Fixing a dropped double-hung window in Singapore is quite easy. All you have to do is to follow these easy steps carefully.
Step 1: Get Your Tools Ready
It’s always a good idea to get all of your tools ready before you start the process. Grab a flathead screwdriver, which you’ll use to remove or adjust the small parts. Get some gloves and wear them to protect your hands from cuts.
A flashlight will help you see inside the window tracks clearly. If you already know which parts are broken, bring them to a hardware store in Singapore and buy the same type. Having everything nearby helps avoid stopping halfway through.
Step 2: Check the Window Balances
Open the sash that keeps falling. Let go gently. If it drops, the balances are either broken or not connected. These balances sit inside the vertical tracks on each side.
Use your flashlight to look in and check both sides. If a spring looks out of place or a plastic piece is sitting crooked or stuck, that’s what’s causing the sash to fall.
Step 3: Remove the Sash Safely
To fix the balances, remove the window sash. First, tilt it inward by unlocking it and pulling the top toward you.
Hold both sides evenly to avoid cracking the glass. Once tilted, lift one side slightly higher to release it from the frame.
Set it down carefully on a clean, flat surface. This step gives you full access to the track and balance parts.
Step 4: Inspect the Balance System
With the sash out, look inside the side tracks. Most double-hung windows use a channel balance with a plastic shoe or metal clip.
Check if it’s balanced, broken, stuck or disconnected. If it’s only misaligned or out of place, then you only need to reposition it to the right place.
If the shoe or spring looks damaged or the balance is snapped, replacement is necessary. Take note of the balance type.
Step 5: Reconnect the Balances (If Not Broken)
If the balances are intact but disconnected, you can reconnect them. Use your screwdriver to turn the shoe until it’s unlocked. Slide it to match the height of the sash. Then lock it back into place.
Line up both sides so they are even. Make sure everything feels secure. If two of the balances are working fine in shape, then the problem will be fixed with this step alone.
Step 6: Replace the Balances (If Broken)
If the balances are cracked or not working, remove them by unscrewing or unclipping from the top. Bring one of them to a window parts supplier in Singapore.
Get the same size and type. Install the new balance by attaching it at the top and sliding the shoe back into the track. Lock the shoe in place and test if it slides smoothly up and down.
Step 7: Reinstall the Sash
Once the balances are fixed, it’s time to put the sash back in. Hold it level and insert one side into the track at a slight angle.
Push the other side in, then tilt the window upright. Make sure it locks into place on both balances.
Test it by sliding it up and letting go. If it stays, the repair works. Repeat for the top sash if needed.
Step 8: Test the Window Fully
Move the sash up and down a few times to see if it holds at different heights. If it stays put without sliding down, that’s a good sign.
If you hear scraping or clicking, the shoe might not be locked properly or something may be misaligned.
Tilt the sash in and out once more to reset it. If it moves smoothly and stays in place, the repair is done.
Final Words
Wondering how to fix a dropped double hung window in Singapore? Start by gathering a screwdriver, gloves, and a flashlight. Carefully inspect the balances inside both side tracks.
Next, tilt and lift out the sash to examine the balance system for any damage or misalignment. If the balances are loose, realign and lock them back into place. If they’re broken, replace them with the same type from a local supplier.
Once the repairs are done, reinstall the sash evenly on both sides and test the window by sliding it up and down. If it stays in place and moves smoothly, your fix was successful.