Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for many years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or double glazing Spalding loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double glazing repairs Chiswick-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and man then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by many factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big 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 can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double glazing repairs Bexley-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when it is 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. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.