How to Take Apart a Quaker Window

Quaker windows have mobile sashes that provide a variety of opening options. When it comes time to replace your Quaker windows, you must take the window apart before installing its replacement. Although Quaker window construction may look complex, Quaker windows are relatively easy to take apart with the right tools and instructions. Work carefully to avoid causing damage to any Quaker window parts that you do not want to pay to replace.

Painter's tool
Crow bar
Pliers
Scissors
Tin Snips

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the inner trim stops from either side of the window casing. The inner trim stop is the thin piece of wood or metal that runs down the length of the sash and holds it in place. Use the corner of a painter's tool to score either side of the trim stop and cut through any paint or caulk holding it in place. Wedge the flat blade of the painter's tool underneath the trim stop and gently push it away from the window at several points along its length. Once the trim stop is eased away from the sash along its length, pry it out using a crow bar and firm pressure.
- 2
  Cut the lower sash's exposed cord or chain to release the sash.
- 3
  Pull the lower sash out of the Quaker window frame.
- 4
  Pry off the parting stops that surround the former bottom sash. There will be one stop at the top and one stop on either side. Use your painter's tool and crow bar and proceed in the same manner you did to remove the two inner trim stops. Work slowly. Pull the nails out with pliers as you go if necessary.
- 5
  Cut the upper sash's exposed cord or chain to release the sash.
- 6
  Pull the lower sash out of the Quaker window frame.
- 7
  Look along the edge of the sash channel for the small compartment that houses the sash cord and weight. Pry the compartment door open with your painter's tool and pull out the pulley and its weight.

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