Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows 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 is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window 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 get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This could be caused by many factors such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window repair near me are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an 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 inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

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

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems 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 on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window repairs near me you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.