Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the brand repairmywindowsanddoors of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash and repairmywindowsanddoors place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be due to many factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and repairmywindowsanddoors replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window repair without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which 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 sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

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

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards 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. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using 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 in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but 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 that was previously installed. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window repair near me two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.