Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin 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). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

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

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

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes 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.

Window sashes need to open and close without much 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 could be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window repairs near me sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and window repairs keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using the previous step. You can use a hammer and 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 that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.