window repairs Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early before they become too much.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use scrap wood.

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 the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from 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 fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window repair near me sashes to move open and shut without effort, but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window repairs are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. 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 into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag 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 made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that 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 to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. 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 small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They 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 removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on the components. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.