Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages before they get out of hand.

The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, 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). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

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

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, sash window Repair a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazed window repair-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash window repair, and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.