Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash is double glazing Tottenham-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is 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 and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this can be a difficult task 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 reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a new 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 tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of Double Glazing Guildford-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down 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 known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.