Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window doctor sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window 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 to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, Window Doctor Near Me you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch Window Doctor Near Me trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to many factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of 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 older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move 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 in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.