Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash Repair My Windows And Doors.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash was double glazing-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

Once 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. But, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. When the putty is fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window replacement sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by many factors such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, Repair My Windows And Doors including the parting beads, cords, and chains 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 bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable the sash with rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often 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 correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

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

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, repair my windows and doors a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.