Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash door repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double glazing repairs-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. 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 could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a window or upvc door repairs Near me that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to locate a new one that is suitable for upvc Door repairs near me the. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might 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 chain or cord, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.