Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, Repair My Windows And Doors due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for repair my Windows and doors sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window 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 is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window repairs sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazed window repairs-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the 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 remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.