Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This problem could be caused by many factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window repairs near me. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

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

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to find replacements.

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 new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazing repairs-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and must be removed. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, Window Repairs you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It's important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then fix it using the previous step. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.