Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. 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 maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could lead to the Window repair or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and Window repair connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. 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

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or Window repair nailed into and need to be removed. You could use a hammer or chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains 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 component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window repairs near me you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.