Window Sash Repairs 101 Your Ultimate Guide For Beginners

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace 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 trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, window repairs and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but 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 connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, 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. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.