Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance 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 on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass window repair manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, Sash Window Repair you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. You'll need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash window Repair.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable the sash with rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need 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 can be used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazed window repair-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or Sash window repair chisel, to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels 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 then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and simple to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.