Why Window Sash Repairs Could Be Your Next Big Obsession

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early, you can 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 show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash is cleaned, you can 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 repairs near me trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.

window repairs near me sashes need to be able to open and window repairs close with minimal effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. It is possible to remove them 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 are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.