Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double glazing repairs Beckton-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should be buried inside the jamb lining. 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 by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and double glazing repair Mitcham eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To complete these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. 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 with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

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

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash 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 usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.