Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

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

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double glazed window repairs near me-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

window repair sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window repair sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components 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 using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult 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.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It is essential to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position 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 a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.