Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared 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 trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and Repairs replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window repair begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the right position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring 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 have to search for replacements.

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 new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

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

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window repair near me, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it open.