Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. 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). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you to place the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, Download free and cords that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened 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 fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is essential 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 the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and Window repair the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazed window repairs-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window repair near me. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.