Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages, before they become too much.

The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to 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 width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or double glazing near me ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.

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

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

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazing repairs near me glazing near me (you can try these out)-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. You could use a hammer or chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.