Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early on before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

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

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window 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 so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in the window repairs Stoke Newington or door that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window Repairs Camden Town sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. If 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 is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

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

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook 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.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.