Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer 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 and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double glazing repairs near me-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to many factors such as 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 eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the right location after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel which can be removed so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, window repairs you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. You could use a hammer or chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position 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 in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, window repairs you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.