Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window doctor sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a door or RepairMyWindowsAndDoors window doctor that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable the sash with rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, Repairmywindowsanddoors so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.

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

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It's important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best 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 unlocked. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep it open.