Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for sash window repair damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early, 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 make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window 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 width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to 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 is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, sash window repair unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old Sash Window Repair weight and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

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

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it may require oil if it feels stiff.

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

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.