Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they get out of hand.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two 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 a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a window or Door Repairing that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window repairing sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to double glazed windows to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Then, 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 a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glaze window repair-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

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

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

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.