Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early before they become too much.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand window repair Orpington and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry at least one 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 appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms on the window repair Orpington begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from 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 next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.

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

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your 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, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using the step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.