Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over 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.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double glazed window repairs-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleaned, window repair near me you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers 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 parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. 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 repair Near me are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and Window Repair Near Me decrease the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. 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 by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. 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, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.