Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues early before they become too much.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs near me-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or double glazed Window repairs near Me using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop 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 a day. Once it's fully cured 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 holds the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by various reasons, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly 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 which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window repairs near me sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with 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 will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level within 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 will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually fixed 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 always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using the step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.