What Window Sash Repairs Is Your Next Big Obsession

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early before they get out of hand.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window repairs sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, 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 longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window repairs near me trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your 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 at least one day. When the putty is fully cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel 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.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is fixed 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 homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Begin by marking the position 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 remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in 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 do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.