Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early on before they become too much.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash Window doctor damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. 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, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, 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, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using 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 begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However 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. 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 opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window doctor, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.