Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching problems early before they get out of hand.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double glazing Southend-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of double glazing repair Southend compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, double glazing repair Cambridge and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and double glazing repair Cambridge eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazing repair Cambridge-hung windows have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep 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. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin 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 but can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. 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 that will replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.