Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior 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 are a great way to add a classic 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. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance 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 and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by finding your window 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, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

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

To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove 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 a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with a rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out 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 supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window repairs near me you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.