Five Window Sash Repairs Lessons From Professionals

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal 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.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the 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 then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window repairs near me are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window repair near me to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can 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.

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

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are usually 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, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of 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 or chain and then fix it using the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.