10 Window Sash Repairs Tricks Experts Recommend

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on, before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash was double glazed window repairs near me-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and Sash window Repair the weights, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular 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 hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

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

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable the sash with a rope. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should move freely now, but it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the Sash Window repair in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and Sash Window Repair then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.