Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching problems early before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for years. They can, 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 much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and double glazing Luton mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the 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 use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (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 is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen 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 hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might 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 nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing Luton-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.