Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows repairs near me to their original condition and keep them looking great 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. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. 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, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. 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 a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and window repairs you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Window sashes should 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 can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (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 onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash windows repair and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You could employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, window repairs break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.