10 Things That Everyone Is Misinformed Concerning Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair timber windows experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window 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 glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also 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 window repair using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

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 the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from age and use and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific 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 fix the problem ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, Sash Window Repair old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. 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 make these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using 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 size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-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 mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when 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 Sash Window Repair will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.