Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash door repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as 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 height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This can result in a door repair or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window Repair (king-wifi.win) sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by many factors that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and window repair open because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and Window Repair lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It's important to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.