Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs (Tarifkchr post to a company blog) is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and Window repairs the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double glazed window repairs near me-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. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to remove the window repair sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to many factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

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

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. You could use a hammer or chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.