Window sash window repair Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for sash window repair signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages, before they become too much.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. However, Sash Window repair repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off 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. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and 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 tool and let it dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried 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 supports the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (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 was attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. 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 putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window repairs sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new 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.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior sash window repair to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.