5 Window Sash Repairs Projects For Any Budget

Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes 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 an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.

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

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, Sash Window Repair and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. 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.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazed window repairs-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new Sash Window Repair cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It's important to take your time, 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 screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.