15 Unexpected Facts About Window Sash Repairs You Didn't Know

Window sash window Repair Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or Sash Window Repair worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and Sash Window Repair replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed without effort, but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each piece. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. 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 if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.