Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, repairmywindowsanddoors mildew and other damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early on, before they get out of hand.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate 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 reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem can be due to various reasons that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure 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 holding the components together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, repairmywindowsanddoors so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing 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 flat bar or repairmywindowsanddoors chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

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