Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for Window Repair many years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off 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 the sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which 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 take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two 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 and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by many factors that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window Repair. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a 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, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.