Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an inside frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than 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. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, window repairs you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was double glazing repairs near me-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue can be due to various reasons such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, window repairs so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood which can be removed to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning 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 with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.