15 Shocking Facts About Window Sash Repairs That You Didn't Know …

Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early before they become out of control.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass window repair (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double glazed window repairs-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash Window repair balance. You will need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This can be due to many factors such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and Sash Window Repair remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used 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 need a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large 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 used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning 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 parting beads from their grooves. It's important to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.