window repairs near me Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or Window repair down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a door or window Repair that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down 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 fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You could use a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

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

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.