Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early on before they become too much.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash windows repair and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and window sash repairs trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

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

To make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights for Window Sash Repairs sash will improve its operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; 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 find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length the sash window repair cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a 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 tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able move freely, however 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 or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.