Window Sash Repairs

Window repair sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand 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 width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs near me-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and Window Repair help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled 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.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components 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 diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is in place 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 leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

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

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. 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 open. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.