Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues early, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window repair Dartford sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or Double Glazing Derby degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then 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 cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort but this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To make these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazing Derby-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, 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 on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have 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 the sash open.