Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for double glazed window repair mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early on, before they become too much.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows repair that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. 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, but you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, but this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and double glazed window repair save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used 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 mallets.

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

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of Double glazed window repair (Http://www.huenhue.net/)-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.