Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early on before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or Window Repairs down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. 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 can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may 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 repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This problem could be caused by many factors such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of 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 up and down and hold it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it open.