5 Window Sash Repairs Projects For Every Budget

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance 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 can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. 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, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This can be due to various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and sash window Repair equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your upvc window repairs sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.

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 correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash window repair and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash window repair. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.