Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to many factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

To make these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, t174.ru including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.