window repairs Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close without effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into 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 next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want 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 new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and Double Glazed Window Repairs Near Me can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once 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. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazed window Repairs Near me-hung window, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now 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, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach 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 the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.