Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a Double Glazing Spalding-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes that 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 remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper for window repairs Maidenhead the parting and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports Window Repairs Maidenhead sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple 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 that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, however, this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

To make these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. 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 decrease energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazing repair Bexley-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it open.