Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for 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 can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean 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 doctor near me trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed without effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that 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 Glaze replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash 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 using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Take the sash off and Glaze take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable the sash with rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve 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 a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

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

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.