What Window Sash Repairs Will Be Your Next Big Obsession?

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages before they get out of hand.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of 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 durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers 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 stopper and trimming it to length and 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 at least a few days. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports upvc window repairs sashes 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. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or RepairMyWindowsAndDoors electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, repairmywindowsanddoors making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its 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 into and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require oil if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.