Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an internal frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give 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 in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining your window repair's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully dried and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have 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 in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and 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 broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one 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.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. You could employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

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

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.