How To Tell If You're Set For Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can get 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 your sash was double glazed window repairs-hung, you must remove 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 from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, 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. When the putty is fully cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out 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 when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by many factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. 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).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double glazed window repairs-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely 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. They're not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.