window repairs Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and sash window repair replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash window repair next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but 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 and Sash window Repair can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work 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, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.