Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. 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 keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window repairs near me are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, window repairs Near me and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window Repairs near me, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your upvc window repairs one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.