window repair Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great 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 can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left 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 separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in 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 houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or Window Repairs cords which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were 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 part loose using mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible 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. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but 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 that will replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.