Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window repairs near me to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece 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 parts together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, window repairs these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.