Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching problems early before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the Sash window repair from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double glazed window repair-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops 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 with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, Sash Window Repair a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and Sash Window Repair the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing window repairs-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays 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. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.