Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, window repair it could cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for Window Repair the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from the 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, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.

When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (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 fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once the sash is 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, as the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the 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 connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window repair. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.