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Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

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

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften window repair hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once 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. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting 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 narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.

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Pub: 04 Feb 2024 05:35 UTC
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