window repair near me Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers 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 an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing 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 cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two 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 a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, Window repair sashes must move open and shut without effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, window repair this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to 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 inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often 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 properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These 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 before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and fix it using the step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.