Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

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

Then, take it off and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash is double glazing windows repairs-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace 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 can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to many factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It's important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and simple to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.