Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs (Related Homepag) is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window 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 width and height, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, 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 at least a 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 fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed 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, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

In order to make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece 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. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior 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 first, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazed window repairs near me-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It's important to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.