Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for years. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

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

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them 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 after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to various reasons, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

In order to make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window repair near me to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or repairs chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.