Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window repairs near me sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and window repair place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch Window Repair trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and Window Repair trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be due to a variety of factors such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

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

To complete these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier 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 that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big 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 used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to let you 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 the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place 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 require removal. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.