Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early before they become out of control.

The sash is an internal frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate over time because of exposure to the elements and 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.

The first step in repair sash window repairs damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can 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 trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds 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 a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and repairmywindowsanddoors you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, unbolt 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 those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and repairmywindowsanddoors then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for Repairmywindowsanddoors mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made 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'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold 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 installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.