Five Window Sash Repairs Lessons Learned From Professionals

Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly double glazed window repairs near me. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you need 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 right position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with 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

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window repairs near me sash using a rope. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazed window repairs near me-hung window the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it 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 attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning 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. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.