Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window Repair sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (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 get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cure, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could result in the window or door Window Repair that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

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 sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts 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 essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window repair, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.