Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window 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 so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window repair near sash. These weights function as counterbalances, Sash Window Repair allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

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

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

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting 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 partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash Window Repair slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.