Window Sash Repairs 101: The Ultimate Guide For Beginners

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window repair sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they may become damaged or degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin 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 height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

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

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of 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 scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer 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 it's completely dried then 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 supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors 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 is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.

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

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used 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 section loose using a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazed window repairs near me-hung window repair near me, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is 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 and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it open.