How to Repair Jalousie Windows
Updated: Jun. 30, 2017How to fix broken glass and a worn out operator
Replace broken glass
Putting in a new piece of jalousie window glass is an easy, straight forward fix. However, because the glass is thicker than standard glass and has polished edges, it usually has to be special-ordered (from glass companies or hardware stores). Bring exact glass dimensions and a chunk of the broken glass to get the right thickness.
Remove the setscrews in the metal housing at each end of the glass, then take out the metal wedges that hold the glass (Photo 1). Hold on to the setscrews—they’re tiny and disappear instantly if dropped. Carefully pull the broken glass out when the wedges are out.
Clean any dirt and corrosion out of the metal housing at the ends, then slide in the new glass (Photo 2).
Install a new window operator
Jalousie window operators can fail because of worn-out gears, corrosion or lack of lubrication. First try cleaning and applying silicone lubricant to all the moving parts. If that doesn’t help, the only fix is to replace them. Jalousie windows and doors are no longer being made, but replacement hardware for most types is still available, either at hardware stores or on the Internet.
For easier access, first take out the glass pane by the broken operator. Remove the screws that hold the operator in place, then disengage the stay bar (the bar that controls the window movement) and the operator arm (Photo 1).
Fit the new operator back into place, reattach it to the stay bar (Photo 2) and put the glass pane back in.
To keep the window working smoothly, periodically clean out dirt and debris from the track and pivots with compressed air or a vacuum and spray all moving parts with silicone lubricant.
Here are two sources for jalousie window parts: BLAINE WINDOW; blainewindow.com and SWISCO INC.; swisco.com
Required Tools for this Project
Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
- 4-in-1 screwdriver
Required Materials for this Project
Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.
- New window operator
- Silicone lubricant
- Window glass