Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on, before they become too much.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to double glazing to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great 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 lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

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 the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace 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. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

sash windows repair Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue could be caused by many factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location 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. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to locate replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazing window repairs-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace Sash Window repair cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.