Window Sash Repairs

window repairs near me sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or double glazed window Repairs degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer 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 the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand 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 height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to various reasons, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, Double glazed Window repairs and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazed window Repairs-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws 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 old counterbalance. They are not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.