Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining your window repairs near me's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, window repairs and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. 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 broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once 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 boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may 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 in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.