window repairs near me Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window repair trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and service the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by many factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening in 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.

When the sash has been shut off 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, since the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise 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 screwed or nailed into and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer and service chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using 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 out 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 in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.