Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for Window Sash Repairs signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time 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 damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window 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 to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop 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. Once the putty has fully dried, window sash repairs you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinges on the emergency window repair begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, 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. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore 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. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is 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 the components. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.