Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for years. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window 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 width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

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

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with scrap 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 a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

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

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms 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 fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components 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 that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazing-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or repositioned. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

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

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your Window doctor (Bestone-Korea.com) you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.