Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double glazed window repairs near me-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch upvc window repairs near me trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the Window Repair to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with 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 impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each component. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.