Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing 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, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window repairs near me sashes prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a upvc window repairs near me or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been 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).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to search for replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.

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

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, 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/chain and then secure it in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your Window Repair, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.