Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with 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). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't coated. This could be caused by various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, 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 open and close, because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and companies take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which 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 new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazed window repairs-hung windows come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and Nearby they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.