Five Window Sash Repairs Lessons From The Pros

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early before they get out of hand.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can become damaged or degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for sash Window Repair repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off 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 wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install 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 an overall inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off 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 keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window glass repair near me, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays 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 fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient as they're often stuck or window repair nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or window repair screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.