Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching these issues early, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double glazed window repairs-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window repair near me begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new 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 older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling 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 the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

The majority of Double Glazed Window Repairs Near Me-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you 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 remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the small partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.