Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early on before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining your window's 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 height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or window repairs using the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a window or upvc door repairs near me that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with very little effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge 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 close and open due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, Window repairs thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

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

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.