Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early on before they become out of control.

The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic 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 damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window repair (www.Diggerslist.Com) begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, 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 hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with 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 through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.