10 Things Everyone Gets Wrong About The Word "Window Sash Repairs"

Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window Repairs (privatehd.Org) is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also use with 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 the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If the problem persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed without effort, but this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to many factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

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. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may 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 position when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.