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How Much Do Window Sash Repairs Experts Earn?
Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues early on, before they get out of hand.


The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.

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

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

window repairs near me that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem can be due to many factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover 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 of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. 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 made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You could use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it might 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 reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will 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 open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.

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