window repairs Herne Bay Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers 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 stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash 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 was screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency 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 connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing Kettering Glazing Tottenham (www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk)-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or Double Glazing Tottenham screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.