Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages before they become too much.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and repairmywindowsanddoors frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to 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 look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use, and repairmywindowsanddoors the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed onto 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 open and close because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always 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. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you buy 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.