Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for a long time. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window 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 size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a Double glazing Repair Grays-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty blade.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for 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 supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and double glazing repair Grays replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with minimal effort but this is a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the proper location after you've completed. 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 using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing repair Wickford-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able to move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.