Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for Window Repairs a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

To make these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then 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 recover, so you will want to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

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

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using the step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.