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 future repairs.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window doctor near me sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for many years. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window replacement and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

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 the compound using your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and window doctor Near me use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window Doctor near me sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.