8 Tips To Enhance Your Window Sash Repairs Game

Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages before they get out of hand.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. 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 balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace window repairs near me cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.

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Pub: 05 Feb 2024 04:15 UTC
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