Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. 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). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double glazing window Repairs, www.longisland.com,-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide 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 parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, Double Glazing Window Repairs such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs to upvc windows are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, Double Glazing Window Repairs replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/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 attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.