Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching these issues early, window repairs before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers 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 it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a window or upvc door repairs near me that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To make these sash repairs it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable the sash with rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a new one that fits correctly. 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 onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and Window repairs pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.