Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

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

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs near Me-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes 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 then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This can be due to many factors that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix 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 need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time these cords can 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 it is opened.

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

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, double Glazed window Repairs near me though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.