Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early on before they get out of hand.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by finding your Window repair brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch upvc window repairs near me trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops 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 and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window repair near me that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This problem can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge 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, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Many times just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or window repair iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. 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.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first, window repair as the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

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

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

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

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.