Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to many factors, gokseong.multiiq.com including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window repairs near me sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to locate replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

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

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to 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. It's important to take your time as they're often wedged or Repairmywindowsanddoors.Co.Uk nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.