Why Window Sash Repairs Will Be Your Next Big Obsession

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they become too much.

The sash is an inside frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window repair near me sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window repair (visit this link), one or two sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.