Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple sash repair windows.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure and dried, Window Sash Repairs you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating 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 use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil 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 remove the sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing 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 are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by 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. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel which can be removed so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.