Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early on, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a Double Glazing Brentwood-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if it solves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by a variety of factors such as 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 in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then 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). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and double glazing Brentwood cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazing repairs Stevenage-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. 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 to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.