Replacing a casement window may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be straightforward and hassle-free. Whether you’re upgrading to energy-efficient replacements, repairing damage, or giving your home a fresh new look, knowing the correct removal process is essential to avoid unnecessary damage to your walls, frames, or glass.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the safe and proper way to remove a casement window. From preparing your tools and workspace to carefully detaching the sash and frame, you’ll learn how to do the job efficiently while saving time and effort.
Understanding Casement Window Cranks
Crank-out casement windows are side-hinged and open outward, either to the left or right. Unlike other window styles, the entire sash swings open, giving you full top-to-bottom ventilation and plenty of fresh air.
The operation relies on the crank system, which is made up of:
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Handle – what you turn to open or close the window
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Spindle – connects the handle to the gears
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Gears – transfer the turning motion to the crank arm
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Crank arm (operator) – pushes or pulls the sash to open or close the window
When you turn the handle, the small gears inside the spindle mesh with larger gears, moving the crank arm. This motion smoothly opens or shuts your window.
Common Problem: Worn-Out Gears
If your casement window feels stiff, skips, or won’t open and close evenly, the gears may be worn down. In many cases, the entire crank system needs replacing.
DIY or Professional Repair?
In the past, fixing this on your own wasn’t really possible. But today, thanks to online tutorials and guides, many homeowners can replace casement window cranks themselves using basic tools. This can save you money on buying a whole new window.
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DIY Option: Follow trusted video tutorials (YouTube is a great resource) or step-by-step articles.
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Professional Option: If you’re not confident with tools or the issue is more complex, calling a window specialist ensures a proper fix.
How to Remove and Replace a Broken Casement Window Operator
If your casement window crank is broken, you can replace it yourself with some basic tools. Follow these easy steps:
Tools You’ll Need
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Allen wrench
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Flathead screwdriver
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Replacement operator and handle
Step 1: Remove the Screen
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Take off the window screen if there is one.
Step 2: Position the Window
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Open the casement window halfway.
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Make sure the crank handle is in a vertical position for easier removal.
Step 3: Remove the Handle
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Use an Allen wrench to loosen the small set screw at the base of the handle.
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Pull the handle off the operator stem.
Step 4: Take Off the Cover (If Applicable)
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If your window has a plastic cover, gently pull it up and out from the bottom edge to release it.
Step 5: Remove the Old Operator
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Unscrew the operator assembly from the window frame using a flathead screwdriver.
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Slide the operator arm out of the sash track by aligning the round knob at the end with the track’s gap.
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Move the window slightly if needed to line it up, then pull the arm out.
Step 6: Install the New Operator
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Turn the replacement handle counterclockwise 2–3 turns to extend the new operator arm slightly.
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Insert the new operator’s arm through the frame hole.
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Line up the screw holes in the operator’s base and secure it with screws (reuse old ones or use new ones provided).
Step 7: Attach the Handle
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Put the new handle onto the crank stem.
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Rotate it until the end knob lines up with the sash track gap, then slide it into place.
Step 8: Replace the Cover (If Applicable)
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Snap the plastic cover back over the operator base.
Step 9: Test the Window
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Turn the handle to close the window.
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Adjust the handle position if needed, then tighten the set screw with your Allen wrench.
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Open and close the window fully to make sure it moves smoothly.
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If it feels stiff or doesn’t move correctly, double-check your installation or consult a professional.
Replace Casement Windows with Double Hung
There are advantages and disadvantages to every kind of window. Still, for most people, the method by which a window opens and shuts is the most important consideration when choosing one.
Casements are opened using a crank, which allows one of the window’s sides to be angled outward so that fresh air may enter. A casement window sash is what allows a double-hung window to function properly.
When the lower part of the double-hung window is opened by pulling the casement window sash upwards, the upper part of the window may then be opened.
The double-hung variety is the most common kind of window seen in residential buildings. This time-honored window design offers both little maintenance and good thermal performance.
The good news is that you may replace your home’s casements with double-hung windows if there are too many casements in areas where you would like to have double-hung windows.
Measurements
Taking measurements is the straightforward initial stage in the process (depending on your settings). Open the casement window you currently have and measure its width before changing.
Measure the aperture of the window at the point where the casement window sash and frame meet. Then, take your measurement and deduct half an inch from it. The height of the casement window is your second measurement that has to be taken.
Again, deduct half an inch from this measurement, and make a note of it.
When you have measured the height and breadth of the opening, subtract half an inch from each measurement. Next, use these values to order a new double-hung window.
Ensure your dimensions are accurate; otherwise, you may be forced to settle for a double-hung window too large to fit into the aperture and this might result into broken glass.
Take off the existing casement-window and replace it
If you wish to install a new double-hung window in its place, you will first need to remove the casement window that is already there. You will need the following items to complete this stage of the process:
- Hammer
- Pry bar
- Gun with a screw in it
- Saw with a reciprocating motion
- Cutting blade (or utility knife)
Remove the window trim that is located around the window’s opening by using the pry bar and hammer that you have available. Be very cautious while removing the trim since you will need it to be in one piece, and you want to prevent breaking it so you can utilize it later.
Using your screw gun, remove the hardware attached to the casement window frame. Remove all of the fasteners, including the mechanism for turning the crank.
Next, remove the frame from the window. Cut around the area where you had just finished removing the trim from the previous step using the reciprocating saw with a cutting blade.
You will find screws intended to hold the window casing, but you can cut through them and continue removing the frame.
Put in the window that has two sashes
After removing the old casement window, position the new double-hung window unit so that it fits into the space left by removing the casement window.
Adjust the window so that it fits snugly in the opening. You can ensure that the window is set up properly by ensuring that the window is sitting on the sill and adjusting the window so that it is facing upward and in towards you.
The window should be positioned to rest on the trim along the inner border.
Examine the results of your labor using a level. To use the level, hold it next to the window unit that has the double-hung windows.
Shims should be used in the center of the frame until the unit can be measured accurately as level and stands upright. Before you fasten the window, you must be sure that you have used the level on all sides to avoid broken glass.
Protecting the brand-new opening
Your double-hung window unit should have come with new fastening screws when you purchased it. If you were not provided with new screws, visit the hardware shop in your area to acquire a few lengthy mounting screws.
Use your screw gun to secure the screws into the prepared holes seen on the side panels of the window opening. Make sure the window is locked so that you don’t have to deal with broken glass.
The finishing touch
You are close to being done! Putting insulation around your brand-new double-hung window is the final step. This necessary step must not be missed under any circumstances.
Although your brand-new double-hung window was likely designed with energy efficiency in mind, particularly if it was awarded the Energy Star label, you will still need to insulate the area surrounding the window for it to its full potential.
Apply an insulating foam with minimal expansion around the unit’s edges and anywhere else in the casing where gaps or space exist (such as glass panes).
The inner border will cover this space filled with foam and surrounds the window you removed previously; alternatively, you may add new trim. Attach the molding to the window frame using nails.
Applying a bead of caulk around the window and its trim will finally bring your window project to a successful conclusion. Caulking the window will further seal it and provide the appearance of a smooth surface.
Changing Out the Windows
Even though switching out a casement window for a double-hung window can be done independently. Even if you don’t have much experience in window installation, you can always call in the experts if you don’t feel like you can handle the challenge of completing this task independently.
It doesn’t matter what kind of windows you’re removing from the wall or putting in while you’re working on a window replacement project as long as the framework of the frame in the wall remains the same.
Casements are somewhat more difficult to remove because of the crank mechanism that has to be removed; nonetheless, once the casement window is removed, an updated double-hung window may be installed in the space in around an afternoon.
When casement windows are replaced with double-hung windows, the effects may be quite different.
How to Repair an Awning Window
Awning windows open outward from the bottom and are operated by a crank mechanism, similar to casement windows. The operator is usually located at the bottom center of the window or on one side. If your awning window isn’t opening or closing smoothly, here’s how to fix it:
Step 1: Disconnect the Operator Arm
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Locate the arm that connects the operator to the window sash.
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Release the clips (there may be one or two, depending on the model) that hold the arm in place.
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Detach the arm carefully to inspect it.
Step 2: Clean and Lubricate the Arm
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Dirt and debris often cause stiffness. Wipe the arm clean with a soft cloth.
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Apply a silicone-based lubricant to keep the movement smooth.
Step 3: Check for Bent Arms
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Look closely at the operator arm to see if it’s bent.
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Try straightening it with pliers if the bend is minor.
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If it cannot be straightened, you may need to replace the operator entirely.
Step 4: Remove the Cover (If Applicable)
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Some awning window operators have a protective cover.
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If present, remove the cover and unfasten the operator from the sash for cleaning or replacement.
Final Thoughts
Both double-hung windows and casements have their perks to offer. But, to accurately evaluate which window is ideal for each room, you will need to consider the design of your house, the view outside the window, the amount of ventilation the space receives, and the window’s energy efficiency.
You will also need to choose whether you want the window choice to be constant across the house’s façade or if you want to mix and match the windows depending on the room and its placement inside the home.
