Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on, before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (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 new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If the sash is double glazing window repairs-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes 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 over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window glass repair near me sashes susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a window or upvc door repairs near me that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin 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 fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable 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 often neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove 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 the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

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. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazed window repair-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require oil if it feels stiff.

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

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.