Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching problems early before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or window sash repairs normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and Window Sash Repairs mark its height and width, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazing windows repairs-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and require removal. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using the step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.