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in ref to anderson windows, how do you replace the upper sash and is it a big job?

I see that another "cindy" asked about upper sash, well i have a broken window (upper sash) and it's anderson, I have the replacement, but have not attempted to replace it, I have the whole upper sash sitting just dreading that it's going to be hard to do. Is it a hard job?

Public Comments

1. No it's not that bad. Get 4 pencils before you start. You may want/ need to tie the balance cords to prevent them from retracting too far. Start by removing the two screws at the bottom of each track on the sides,(top sash in closed position, bottom sash about half way open) now pull the track and bottom sash out of the frame, this is easier with two people, and remove the balance cords from the sash. this is where the pencils come in,tie the cord around the pencil and SLOWLY let it retract until the pencil stops it from going any further into the frame. Do this with the other cord on the bottom sash. Set the bottom sash aside and do the same procedure with the upper sash. Verify that the new sash is the proper size, now reverse the order and install the upper sash first, connecting the sash cords and "feeding" the sash back into the tracks making sure you don't pinch the cords (make sure they run in their allotted space) remove pencils after te cord is connected to the sash. Now repeat this with the lower sash, tuck the tracks back into the frame and re-install the two screws. Check for proper operation and locking and you're done. Should take NO more than 1/2 hr., probably less. If you get stuck email. NOTE: You may have to raise the lower sash all the way and bend the tracks in toward the center of the opening to allow the track to come in toward you , as the outer part of the track is longer than the inside due to the slope of the sill and be able to get up over the stool. ( The stool is the interior trim piece most people wrongly call the sill). Again if you have any problems -email. Rob


2. I cannot add much else to what Rob is suggesting as he is spot on with his description.

   The one thing that I will add however is that in most cases I would recommend having a certified installer replace your windows. While the job is not brain surgery, it does require a specific level of expertise that cannot typically be ascertained overnight.