Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry 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 look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a upvc door repairs near me or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to search for replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place 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 nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You might be able to employ a hammer and window repairs chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on the components. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and Window repairs fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.