Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards 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 durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They may, however, be damaged or Sash Window Repair degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows repair back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out 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). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket 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.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. sash Window repair weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled 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 recover It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed 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 of space at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult 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. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.