Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on before they get out of hand.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or Window Repairs degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (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 the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double glazed window repairs near me-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to 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 a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or window repairs a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off 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 just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of 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 cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head 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 balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. 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. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.