Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or window repair Dartford loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the Window Repair Dartford brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double glazing repairs Hackney-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning 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 using a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep it open.