Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early before they become too much.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or repairmywindowsanddoors loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or repairmywindowsanddoors using the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. 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 trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. You'll need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window repair Canvey Island sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. After the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its 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. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can use either 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 recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store 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 could be needed to keep it in an open position.