Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing double glazed windows windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand 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 width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. 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 a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem could be caused by many factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash window repair and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and Sash Window Repair chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.