Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. 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, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two 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 a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, 257634 apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. Once it's fully cured then 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 the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can be due to many factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, 257634 you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or 257634 electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to locate replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, 257634.xyz a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, 257634 these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and 257634 the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.