Why Window Sash Repairs Is More Difficult Than You Imagine

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and sash Window repair give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This could be caused by a variety of factors that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (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 a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or sash Window Repair lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized 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 using a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new Sash Window Repair cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.