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 problems before they become serious you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

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

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close without effort, but this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to many factors such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve 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 has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed and Window repairs removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to 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 unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.