How Do You Know If You're Ready To Go After Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early on, before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double glazing windows repairs-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if it solves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, Window Sash Repairs including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced 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 it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It's important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, Window Sash Repairs remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it 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 in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.