Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window repair sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step to 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 worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining your window’s brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double glazed window repairs-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you’ve removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also use with a scrap piece of 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 with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn’t easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you’ll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window repair sashes should be able to open and close without effort, but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn’t properly glazed. This can be due to various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash’s to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you’ll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel’s location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the right location after you’ve completed. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

It’s not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you’ll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by a 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 are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as “tie rails”) out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed and it’s worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position 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 chain or cord and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, 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 counterbalance. They’re not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.