Window Sash Repairs

window repairs sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they become too much.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

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

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. 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 (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or Window Sash Repairs nailed into and require removal. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach 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 the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it open.