Cleaning the exterior of your Anderson casement windows can be daunting, given their unique design. However, with the right technique, you can tackle this task efficiently and safely. Anderson casement windows are hinged on one side, allowing them to swing open like a door, making it a breeze to clean the exterior glass and frames.
To initiate the cleaning process, begin by gathering the necessary supplies. You will need a ladder that is tall enough to reach the top of the window, a bucket of soapy water, a sponge or cloth, and a squeegee. Once you have your materials assembled, carefully place the ladder in a stable position against the wall below the window.
Now comes the crucial step of opening the window to the outside. Carefully grip the handle on the hinged side of the window and gently push it outwards. As the window starts to swing open, guide it with your other hand to prevent it from slamming against the wall. Once the window is fully open, secure it in place using the sash lock or stay to ensure it remains stable while you clean.
Removing the Crank Handle
To begin the process of removing the crank handle, you’ll need to identify the small circular cap located on the center of the handle. This cap typically has a small notch or indentation that allows you to pry it off using a flat-head screwdriver or a butter knife. Once the cap is removed, you’ll see a screw underneath it. Using a Phillips-head screwdriver, carefully unscrew the screw and set it aside in a safe place to avoid losing it.
With the screw removed, gently pull the crank handle straight towards you to detach it from the window frame. In some cases, the handle may be slightly stuck, so be sure to apply gentle pressure while pulling. If you encounter any resistance, do not force it, as this could damage the handle or the window frame. Instead, try gently wiggling the handle back and forth while pulling to loosen it up.
Once the crank handle is completely detached, you can proceed to the next step, which typically involves removing the sash stops to release the window sash for cleaning.
| Materials Needed | Description |
|---|---|
| Flat-head screwdriver or butter knife | To pry off the circular cap |
| Phillips-head screwdriver | To unscrew the screw beneath the cap |
Opening the Casement Window from Inside
Accessing the exterior of an Anderson casement window for cleaning requires opening it from the inside. This process involves a simple series of steps:
1. Determine the Window Type:
Anderson casement windows come in two primary types: crank-operated and push-open.
2. For Crank-Operated Windows:
Step 1: Unlatch the Window
Locate the latch at the top or bottom of the window frame and pull it towards you. This will disengage the locking mechanism.
Step 2: Turn the Crank
Grab the crank handle at the bottom of the window and turn it clockwise to open the window. The window will pivot outwards.
3. For Push-Open Windows:
Step 1: Push the Sash
Grasp the handle or sash at the bottom of the window and push it outward. The sash will pivot open a short distance.
Step 2: Lift the Sash Upward
Once the sash is open slightly, lift it upward to unhook it from the frame. You can now fully open the window and access the exterior.
Safety Precautions:
Always follow these safety precautions when opening an Anderson casement window from the inside:
- Ensure the window is securely latched before closing.
- Avoid placing heavy objects on the windowsill.
- Keep children and pets away from open windows.
Positioning the Window for Cleaning
To clean the outside of an Anderson casement window, you must first position the window so that it is easy to reach. Here are the steps on how to do this:
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Open the window by turning the handle on the side of the frame. Pull the window towards you until it is fully open.
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Locate the two release latches on the top of the window frame.
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Push the release latches inward towards the center of the window frame. The window will now be able to pivot on its hinges.
Step Action 1 Open the window by turning the handle on the side of the frame. Pull the window towards you until it is fully open. 2 Locate the two release latches on the top of the window frame. 3 Push the release latches inward towards the center of the window frame. The window will now be able to pivot on its hinges. -
Pivot the window to the desired angle for cleaning.
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Prop the window open with a stick or other object to keep it in place.
Locking the Window in Position
Once the window is fully opened, it can be locked in place to prevent it from accidentally closing. To lock the window, simply pull the sash inward towards you until you hear a click. The sash will then be securely locked in place.
To unlock the window, simply push the sash outward away from you until you hear a click. The sash will then be free to move again.
It is important to note that the locking mechanism on an Anderson casement window is designed to prevent the window from accidentally closing. It is not designed to prevent the window from being forced open. If you are concerned about security, you should consider installing a security bar or other security device.
Here are some additional tips for locking and unlocking an Anderson casement window:
| To lock the window: | To unlock the window: |
|---|---|
| Pull the sash inward towards you until you hear a click. | Push the sash outward away from you until you hear a click. |
| Ensure the sash is fully closed before locking it. | If the sash is not fully closed, the locking mechanism will not engage properly. |
| Never force the locking mechanism. | If the locking mechanism is not working properly, do not try to force it. Call a qualified window repair technician. |
Cleaning Techniques for Casement Windows
1. Open the Window
To clean the outside of a casement window, you must first open it. To do this, turn the handle on the window frame. The window will swing open outward.
2. Remove the Screen
Once the window is open, you need to remove the screen so that you can clean the glass. To do this, simply pull the screen straight towards you. The screen will come loose and you can set it aside.
3. Clean the Glass
Now you can clean the glass. You can use a variety of different methods to clean the glass, but the most effective way is to use a squeegee and a bucket of soapy water. Simply dip the squeegee in the soapy water and then wipe it across the glass in a vertical motion. Be sure to rinse the squeegee frequently in the soapy water. You can also use a commercial glass cleaner if you prefer.
4. Wipe Down the Frames
Once the glass is clean, you can wipe down the frames of the window. You can use a damp cloth or a sponge to do this. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
5. Reinstall the Screen
Once the frames are clean, you can reinstall the screen. To do this, simply fit the screen back into the window frame. The screen will snap into place.
6. Lubricate the Hinges
Finally, you should lubricate the hinges of the window to keep them functioning smoothly. You can use a spray lubricant or a few drops of oil.
Additional Cleaning Tips for Casement Windows
1. Use a Soft Cloth
When cleaning the glass of a casement window, be sure to use a soft cloth to avoid scratching the glass.
2. Don’t Overuse Cleaning Solution
When using a cleaning solution, don’t overuse it. Too much cleaning solution can leave streaks on the glass.
3. Clean the Frames Regularly
To keep your casement windows looking their best, be sure to clean the frames regularly. This will help to prevent dirt and grime from building up.
4. Inspect the Weatherstripping
Every time you clean your casement windows, take the time to inspect the weatherstripping. Weatherstripping can become damaged over time, so it’s important to replace it if necessary.
Drying the Window Surface
Once the window has been thoroughly cleaned, it’s important to dry it completely to prevent streaks and water spots. Here are the steps to dry the window surface:
Using a Clean Microfiber Cloth
For best results, use a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth specifically designed for cleaning glass surfaces. These cloths are highly absorbent and won’t leave behind any streaks or fibers.
Start from the Top and Work Down
Start drying the window from the top and work your way down. This prevents streaks from forming as you move the cloth over the wet surface.
Use Overlapping Strokes
When drying the window, use overlapping strokes to ensure that all areas are covered. Avoid circular motions, as these can leave behind streaks.
Change the Cloth Often
As the cloth becomes damp, change it for a dry one. Using a wet or dirty cloth will only spread dirt and streaks around.
Buff the Window Dry
After the window has been dried with a microfiber cloth, buff it with a clean, dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture and polish the surface.
Use a Squeegee for Large Windows
For large windows, a squeegee can be used to remove excess water quickly and efficiently. Start at the top of the window and pull the squeegee down in overlapping strokes, applying light pressure.
| Tips for Drying the Window Surface |
|---|
| Use a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth |
| Start from the top and work down |
| Use overlapping strokes |
| Change the cloth often |
| Buff the window dry |
| Use a squeegee for large windows |
Release the Crankshaft Operator
Locate the crankshaft operator, which is usually a small handle or lever on the frame of the window. Rotate the operator clockwise to release the lock that holds the window in place.
Push the Window Open
Once the lock is released, gently push the window open until it reaches the desired position. Be careful not to push the window too far or it may come out of its frame.
Support the Window
If the window is heavy or if it’s opening in a strong wind, support it with a prop or a piece of wood to prevent it from falling.
Clean the Outside of the Window
Use a soft cloth or sponge and a mild cleaning solution to clean the outside of the window. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the window.
Cleaning the Window Tracks
Use a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris from the window tracks. If the tracks are particularly dirty, you can use a mild cleaning solution to clean them.
Close the Casement Window
Closing the Casement Window
To close the casement window, simply reverse the steps for opening it.
Step 1: Release the Crankshaft Operator
Rotate the crankshaft operator counterclockwise to lock the window in place.
Step 2: Pull the Window Closed
Gently pull the window closed until it is fully seated in its frame.
Step 3: Lock the Window
Rotate the crankshaft operator clockwise to lock the window in place.
Reinstalling the Crank Handle
Step 8: Reattaching the Window Crank Handle
In order to reattach the crank handle, you will need to:
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Push the crank handle onto the shaft, ensuring that the handle is fully seated.
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Tighten the set screw on the side of the crank handle with a Phillips head screwdriver until it is snug.
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Test the crank handle to ensure it operates smoothly and opens the window properly.
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Clean up any residual debris or dust from the window frame and surrounding area.
Additional Tips for Reinstalling the Crank Handle:
If the crank handle is difficult to push onto the shaft, you can apply a small amount of lubricant to the shaft before inserting the crank handle.
If the set screw is stripped or damaged, you will need to replace it with a new one of the same size.
If the crank handle still does not operate smoothly after reinstallation, you may need to adjust the window sash or replace the operator.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
9. The Window Won’t Open
There are several reasons why an Anderson casement window might not open.
- The sash is locked. Check the corner of the sash for a small lever or knob. If it’s in the locked position, unlock it.
- The sash is stuck. Try gently prying the sash open with a flat-head screwdriver. If it still won’t open, there may be something obstructing the track. Check for any debris or objects that could be preventing the sash from moving.
- The hinges are damaged. If the hinges are damaged, the sash may not be able to open or close properly. Inspect the hinges for any signs of damage, such as cracks or broken parts. If the hinges are damaged, they will need to be replaced.
- The window is out of alignment. If the window is out of alignment, the sash may not be able to open or close properly. Check the alignment of the window by looking for any gaps or unevenness. If the window is out of alignment, it will need to be adjusted.
Step 1: Open the Window Sash
To open the window sash, grasp the bottom corners of the window and gently push the window outward. The window should tilt into the room, allowing you to access the outside of the glass.
Step 2: Remove the Sliding Screen
The sliding screen is located at the bottom of the window sash. To remove it, slide the screen to the left until it comes loose and can be lifted out.
Step 3: Clean the Glass
To clean the glass, use a window cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge. Wipe the glass in a circular motion, taking care to remove all dirt and debris.
Step 4: Clean the Window Frames
To clean the window frames, use a mild detergent and water. Wipe the frames down with a soft cloth, taking care to remove all dirt and debris.
Step 5: Lubricate the Window Hinges
To lubricate the window hinges, use a silicone-based lubricant. Apply the lubricant to the hinges and work it into the joints.
Step 6: Adjust the Window Latch
The window latch is located at the top of the window sash. To adjust the latch, turn the knob clockwise to tighten the latch or counterclockwise to loosen the latch.
Step 7: Replace the Sliding Screen
To replace the sliding screen, slide the screen into the track at the bottom of the window sash and push it to the right until it locks into place.
Step 8: Close the Window Sash
To close the window sash, gently push the window inward until it snaps into place.
Step 9: Clean the Window Sills and Tracks
To clean the window sills and tracks, use a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris.
Step 10: Additional Tips for Cleaning Anderson Casement Windows
1. Use a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching the glass.
2. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the window surface.
3. Clean the windows regularly to prevent dirt and debris from building up.
4. Lubricate the window hinges regularly to keep them operating smoothly.
5. Adjust the window latch as needed to ensure that the window closes properly.
6. Replace the sliding screen if it becomes damaged or torn.
7. Clean the window sills and tracks regularly to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating.
8. If you have any difficulty cleaning your Anderson casement windows, contact a professional window cleaner.
How To Open An Anderson Casement Window To Clean Outside
To open an Anderson casement window to clean the outside, you will need to follow these steps:
- Locate the locking mechanism on the side of the window.
- Turn the locking mechanism to the unlock position.
- Slide the window open to the desired position.
- Clean the outside of the window with a soft cloth and a mild detergent.
- Rinse the window with clean water.
- Dry the window with a clean cloth.
- Close the window and turn the locking mechanism to the lock position.
People Also Ask About How To Open An Anderson Casement Window To Clean Outside
How do I open an Anderson casement window that is stuck?
If your Anderson casement window is stuck, you can try the following:
- Check to see if the window is locked. If it is, unlock it.
- Try to gently wiggle the window back and forth to loosen it.
- If the window is still stuck, you can try to remove the crank handle and use a screwdriver to turn the gears that open the window.
How do I replace the screen on an Anderson casement window?
To replace the screen on an Anderson casement window, you will need to follow these steps:
- Open the window.
- Remove the old screen by pulling it out of the frame.
- Insert the new screen into the frame.
- Close the window.
How do I adjust the hinges on an Anderson casement window?
To adjust the hinges on an Anderson casement window, you will need to follow these steps:
- Open the window.
- Locate the screws that hold the hinges in place.
- Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws.
- Adjust the hinges to the desired position.
- Tighten the screws.
- Close the window.
