Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists 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. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers 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 using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to a door or a window repairs near me that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue could be caused by many factors, window repairs including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover 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 a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed 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 flat bar or chisel. It is important to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.