10 Unexpected Window Sash Repairs Tips

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window 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 width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with very little effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window repair sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side and window repair smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazed window repairs-hung window the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.

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

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.