Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards 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 give an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and Sash Window repair other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This problem could be caused by various reasons such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

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

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take off 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 the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable window sash using rope. They function as counterbalances, sash window repair allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

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

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts 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 crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

After the Sash Window Repair has been 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 an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazed window repairs-hung window, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.