Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair timber windows specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. 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). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take it off and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cure and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing glass and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy doors repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash Window Repair weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window repair near me sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first 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 area loose using mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a 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 weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but 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 chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

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

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.