Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early on before they become too much.

The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass window repair (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and sash window repair mark its width and height, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

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

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This can be due to a variety of factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and Sash Window Repair then remove it from the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. sash Window Repair weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial 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 with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws 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're not costly and easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.