Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window repair Camden Town and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double glazing repair Woking-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, take it off 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 wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close without effort, but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were 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 part loose using mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double Glazing Wickford-hung window, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or repositioned. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or Double glazing Wickford chisel. It is essential to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.