Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degrade over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double glazing repairs Rayleigh-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window repairs Kettering sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by various reasons that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (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 a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were 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 section loose using a mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for 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 level in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.