Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early before they get out of hand.

The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash has a Double glazing Hanwell-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that 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 could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be due to many factors that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that 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 are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want 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. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window repairs Southend two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.