Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window replacement near me brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take 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-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared 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, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with very little effort, but this is a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable sash by a rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window doctor near me without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used 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 require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner 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. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. After the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You could employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it open.