Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move up and down vertically 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 appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, 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.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin 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 replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.

After the Sash Window Repair has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and Sash Window Repair give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an 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 to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, sash Window repair and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

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

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double glazed window repair-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.