10 Unexpected Window Sash Repairs Tips

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

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

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window Repair trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cure, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. 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 from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and Window repair decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and window repair connected to the movable the sash with rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window repair near me to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazed window repairs-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Determine 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 cord or chain and fix it as described in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and are easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.