Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash door repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window repairs's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the problem persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort however, Repairmywindowsanddoors this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by various reasons, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have 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 lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

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. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. After 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 frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these chains can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can either 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 old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.