Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues early before they become too much.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

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

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash window Repair off and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash was double glazed window repair-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue can be due to a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched 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 fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazed window repairs-hung windows have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or sash Window repair cord and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.