Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early before they become too much.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window brand 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 purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has been double glazing repair-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least one day. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in the window or window replacement near me door that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if it solves the issue. If the issue continues it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should 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 coated. This issue can be caused by a number 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 starting to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the Window replacement near me. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window doctor sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want 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 are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.

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 via an opening in 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 removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and require removal. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it open.