Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window 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 you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a window repairs near me or window repair near me door Window Repair Near Me that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with very little effort, but this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular window repair near me (writes in the official telegra.ph blog) sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated 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 remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped 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 may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels 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 on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.