Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. However, sash Repair my windows and Doors experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double glazing repair Hayes-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and Repair My Windows And Doors reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove 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 the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, repair My Windows and doors you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.