Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair double glazing windows experts can restore windows repairs to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer 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. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, Window Sash Repairs may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or window sash repairs cords that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or relocated. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

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

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.