Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages before they become too much.

The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double glazing-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to the window or door 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 you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close without effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms 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 in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged 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 hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable Window Replacement Near Me sash using rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell 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 onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized 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 part loose with a mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you 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 screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with 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 out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.