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 an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them 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 stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to various reasons such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in 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. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated Near By cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double glazing repair Rushden-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and Near By lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they 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 freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less 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 on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.