Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching the 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 show you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden Window Repair sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, window repair it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (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 get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double glazed window repairs near me-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. 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 window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

In order to make these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one 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 can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting 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. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.