Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early, before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double glazed window repairs near Me-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can install 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 can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then 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 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 window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove 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 by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords could 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 keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You could use a hammer or chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.