Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early before they become too much.

The sash is an inside frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal 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 for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window repairs near me and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

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 has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand window repair or using a putty knife.

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

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, window repair because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes 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. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side and 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 or mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your Window repair, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.