Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair window sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass repair 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 it off and place it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

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

Sash Hardware

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

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

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

Older windows made of wood are joined with 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 crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by 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 weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazed repair-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. You could employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and then secure it in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.