10 Unexpected Window Sash Repairs Tips

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

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 degraded in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window repairs trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can 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 may wear out with time and use. This could lead to a door repair - Resource - or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window repairs sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out and Door repair it's worth your time. If the sash remains 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 the components. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

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

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.