10 Window Sash Repairs That Are Unexpected

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they get out of hand.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look 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 tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin 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). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so that you can reach 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. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window repair trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to many factors that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or window repairs discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings 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 before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazed window repairs-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and Window Repairs make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.