Why Window Sash Repairs Is The Right Choice For You?

Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window replacement brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch Window Doctor trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by many factors such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work 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 in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.