Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing double glazed windows sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the 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 stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one 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 fresh 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 won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash window repair becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to many factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. 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 bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and Sash Window Repair shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter 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 made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove 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 a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough Sash Window Repair cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.