Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden Window Repair sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin 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). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window repairs near me sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window repair sash in order to access the hardware.

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

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and Window Repair then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash, Window Repair and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before 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 in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord connected 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 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 take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.