Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window repairs Chiswick and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting 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 a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by a rope. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window repairs Windsor without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing repairs Beaconsfield-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore 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 typically screwed or nailed into and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is essential to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.