Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows repairs near me back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

sash Window repair Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repairing double glazed windows this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists, it is most 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 without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. 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).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and sash window Repair cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be of the right size. 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 protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.