Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double glazing repairs-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least 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 supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, but this is a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for Window Repairs the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazing near me-hung window, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.