Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early, before they become too much.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to 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. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window 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, Window repairs and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was double glazing near me-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least one day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place 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 into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the upvc window repairs near me to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. 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 that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.