10 Healthy Window Sash Repairs Habits

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Thankfully, 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 sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, Window Repairs 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). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double glazing near me-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers 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 parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string 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 helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will 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. They are typically screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

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

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.