Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the 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 longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs [www.4stour.com] is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These 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 replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one 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 new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news 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 slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

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

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. 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, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were 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 a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.