5 Window Sash Repairs Projects For Any Budget

Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on 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 reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over 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 grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this solves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal 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 a variety of factors that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these upvc door repairs near me to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazing repairs-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.