Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for Repair My Windows And Doors sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double glazing repair Hackney-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or Repair My Windows And Doors closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to 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 a pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow 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 in balance in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays 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 must be removed. You could use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It is important to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails, 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. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.