Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window repairs's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double glazing repairs-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces of 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 substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least one 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 prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old, window repairs especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oil if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and Window Repairs the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.