Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become too much.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn out 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). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This could be caused by various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges 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 resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the double glazed window repairs. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. 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 that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazed Window repairs near Me-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will 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. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may require some lubrication 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 extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.