Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much 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 could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, window repairs remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window repair near me trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, 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 at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be due to many factors that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening 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).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash door repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to search for replacements.

It's difficult 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 string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.