Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages before they become too much.

The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. 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). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a 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 have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific sash window Repair.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, sash Window repair make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and Sash Window Repair remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows repair made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs 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 made use of 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 a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become 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 opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and must be removed. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.