Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood Clerestory Window Repair sashes give the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and 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 to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double glazing repairs near me-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access the hardware.

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

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve 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 has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.

In order to make these sash repairs it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or Repair My Windows And Doors just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is 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 interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing repairs near me-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, door repair and keep it in position when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each piece. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

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

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.