A Comprehensive Guide To Window Sash Repairs From Beginning To End

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash Repair my windows and doors experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to 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 Repair My Windows and doors save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing Chelmsford-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.