Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become out of control.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and Double Glazing Window Repairs the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double glazing window repairs (More inspiring ideas)-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window repair trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows repair into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from what you require. After the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, Double Glazing Window Repairs these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require lubrication 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 in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using the previous step. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, 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 is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.