Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for many years. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's 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 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 reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-repairs/ may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from what you require. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

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

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and 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 nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.