Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they get out of hand.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window repairs and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed without effort, repairmywindowsanddoors however, 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 variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on 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 with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable window sash using rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or RepairMyWindowsAndDoors ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

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

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.