Window 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 an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window repair Streatham sashes add an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, window repair streatham which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double glazing repair Wickford-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with very little effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure 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 have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. 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 area loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner 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. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. 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

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication in order to feel less 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 at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best 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 easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it open.