Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages before they get out of hand.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state 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 as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window repair near me and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window repairs near me trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner 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. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or moved. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and 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.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely 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're not costly and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.