Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double glazing repairs near me-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes 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 from the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

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

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.