window repair Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early before they get out of hand.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn or 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 width and height so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs near me-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried, 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 window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You'll need to remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct 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 secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off 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 to ensure that the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window repairs. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold 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 usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

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

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.