Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages, before they become too much.

The sash is an internal frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, window repairs which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. 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, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash is double glazing near me-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. 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 take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports 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 repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. 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 a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which 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 can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove 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 has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazing near me-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and Window Repairs easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.