Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious 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 teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass window repair manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, 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 your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch upvc window repair trim from the lumberyard, but you could 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 over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This could be caused by various reasons that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve 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 is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, Sash Window Repair and cords that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash Window Repair and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place 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 will require to be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, Sash Window Repair but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.