Window Sash Repairs

window repair sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, window repairs mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This can be due to various reasons such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. 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 using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. It is possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, 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 working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.