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 an internal frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass window repair or sash window repair on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and Sash window repair then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it solves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

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

To make these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out 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 supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash window repair cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each piece. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window repair near me, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.