Crank-out casement windows are hinged on the side and open outward to the left or right. Usually taller than wide, their entire casement window sash opens to provide top-to-bottom ventilation. The gears are very important for crank-out casements.
Handles, spindles, and internal gears are the components that make up casement window cranks. As the handle is turned, smaller gears at the inner end of the spindle mesh with bigger gears either push or pull the crank arm (split arm operator), which opens or shuts the window.
If the window is operating inconsistently, it may be because the gears are worn out, in which case the whole system will need to be replaced. Yet, a person who enjoys doing their repairs may be able to solve the problem using commonplace tools, so avoiding the expense of purchasing a new mechanism.
Years ago, you could not carry on such errands on your own. However, there are numerous ways that can help you to remove casement windows – thanks to Google company and video tutorials (such as sign in to YouTube and watching videos or checking out online articles).
The videos you watch might be good, but the article on such topics can help you gain better insight.
Removing Casement-Window When Broken
Below are the easy to follow instructions to help you replace it when it is broken.
- Remove the window’s screen, if applicable.
- Open the casement window sash to approximately halfway so that the operator crank is in the vertical position.
- Remove the operator handle by loosening the set screw at the base using an Allen wrench. With the set screw loosened, pull the handle off of the operator stem.
- Detach the plastic operator base cover, if applicable. The cover will unsnap from the operator by pulling it out and upward from the bottom edge.
- Disconnect the window operator assembly from the frame by removing the screw at each end using a flathead screwdriver.
- Slide the casement window sash-end of the operator’s arm out of the casement window sash’s bottom track by aligning the round knob at the end of the operator’s arm with the gap in the track. Move the open window, as needed, to align the knob in the track gap, then remove the operator assembly by pulling the operator arm horizontally out of the hole in the frame.
- Turn the replacement operator handle counterclockwise, two or three turns to extend the operator arm slightly.
- Insert the end of the replacement operator’s arm through the hole in the frame and position the base of the new operator against the frame. Align the screw holes in the operator’s base and secure it to the frame with the screws removed earlier or the screws provided.
- Install the replacement operator’s handle onto the crank stem. Rotate the handle, as needed, to extend the operator arm to where the end knob aligns with the gap in the window’s bottom track and slip the knob into the track.
- Reinstall the operator’s plastic cover, if applicable, by positioning it over the operator base and snapping it into place.
- Turn the operator’s handle to draw the window closed. Remove the handle and orient it as desired, then secure it in place by tightening the set screw in the base with an Allen wrench.
- Open and close the window to verify smooth movement through its full range. (if it does not move smoothly, get it checked, and please try again later)
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
An operator for an awning window may be located on the bottom center of the window or the side of the window. In either scenario, the mechanism that operates the window is similar to that of a casement window.
Remove the arm from the casement window sash, which may have one or two clips holding it together on the bottom or one of the sides. Do this if the mechanism does not operate smoothly.
It is important to clean and lubricate the arm. Awning arms sometimes become bent. If you are unable to straighten the arm using pliers, it is possible that the operator has to be replaced.
To clean the operator’s arm on an awning window, remove the cover from the mechanism and unfasten it from the casement window sash. This step is only essential if the cover is present.
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.
