Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early before they get out of hand.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance 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 or normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window 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 width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double glazing near me-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, Window Repairs and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This 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 from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. 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 can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue can be due to a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and window repairs access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. 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 in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of 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 chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and simple to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it open.