What A Weekly Window Sash Repairs Project Can Change Your Life

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on, before they get out of hand.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to remove the window repair sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with minimal effort but this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window repairs near me sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped 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 operation of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new 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 with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

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

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.