A How-To Guide For Window Sash Repairs From Start To Finish

Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming 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 at least a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off 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 just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

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

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. 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 old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or window repairs nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in the previous step. 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 old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window repairs near me, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.