Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand 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 size and window repairs width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared 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 these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This problem could be caused by various reasons such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which 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 from the sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing repairs-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep it open.