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 the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off 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.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, Near By you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close without effort, but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical 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.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first 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 sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near by the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach 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-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window repair near me. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.