window Doctor Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for a long time. 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 keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and Window Doctor place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors 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're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to many factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each piece. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, Window doctor measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then 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.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and Window Doctor they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your upvc window repairs, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.