10 Healthy Habits For A Healthy Window Sash Repairs

window doctor Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-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, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of 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 supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It is essential to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open 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 chain or cord and fitters attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.