Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They may, however, be damaged or double glazed Window repairs degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repair near me repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take it off and place it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new 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 door or window that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if this solves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by various reasons that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, Double glazed Window repairs this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-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 using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or moved. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require oil if it feels stiff.

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

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.