What Is Everyone Talking About Window Sash Repairs Right Now

Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

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

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will 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 time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by many factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window repair. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged 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 are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.