Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the brand of window 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 to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting 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, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully cure and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. 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 cost of energy. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window repairs Wickford without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

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

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using pin punches and Window Repairs Wickford hammers. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

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 at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.

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 new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazing repairs Stanmore-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords 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 typically installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.