Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and sash window repair width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs near me-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two 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 stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

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 can be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing double glazed windows and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, Sash Window Repair you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Many times 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 costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to find replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights 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 components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash window Repair upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.