What Window Sash Repairs Should Be Your Next Big Obsession

Window Sash Repairs

window repairs sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of 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 internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your Window Repair sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be 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 is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and window repair some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore 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 nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, window repair you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.