Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start 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). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split 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 stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could lead to the window or door 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 difficulty opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window repairs without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, double glazed window repairs Near me as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or double glazed window repairs near me moved. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each component. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then fix it using the previous step. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.