Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant 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 deteriorate over time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window doctor near me's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for window doctor near me a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cured and dried, you can 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 may wear out over time and with use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window Doctor Near me sashes must move open and shut with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by many factors that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, 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 aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh 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 older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

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

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.