Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early on before they get out of hand.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and Window Repair Edgware set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double glazing Windsor-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window Repair Edgware trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

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

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, 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

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You could use a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.