Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early before they become out of control.

The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by determining the brand window repair of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut without effort, but this is difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window Repair sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window repair near. A new sash cord will give you 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 locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and window repair will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oiling if it seems 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 chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.