Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace 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 doctor trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window replacement near me are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge 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 an overall lack of energy efficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less 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 in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.