Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

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

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash is Double glazing repairs Borehamwood-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior double glazing repairs Borehamwood to you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazing repairs Kilburn-hung window the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position 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 need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the 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 free using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.