Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages before they get out of hand.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and Window sash repairs width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was double glazing window repairs-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or 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 are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or window sash repairs discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is 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 ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then 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 weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and simple to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.