Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the 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. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a door or window repair that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly covered with. This could be caused by a variety of factors such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After you have the sash stopped and Window repair the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double glazed window repairs-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place 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 need to be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It's important to take your time, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.