Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take it off and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazing near me-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 taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the 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, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by various reasons that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and pvc shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb level. 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 upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, pvc you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. The sash should be able move freely now, but it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but 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 old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window repairs two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.