Window Sash Repairs

window repair near me sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can 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 fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, window repairs as well as other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer 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 place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular 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 problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It is possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.