Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window replacement near me sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate over time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window doctor repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or Window Doctor on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

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 was double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and window doctor then remove it manually or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular 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 remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and general inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to find 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 that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within 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 but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.