Window Sash Repairs Tools To Ease Your Daily Life

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become too much.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. They 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 trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window repairs or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, Window repairs spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew 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, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

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

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.