Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them 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 parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use 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 door repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to take off the window repairs sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close without effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to many factors that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is 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 position the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of 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. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position 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 will need to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.