Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash upvc window repairs replacement near me (news) repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double glazing-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and window replacement Near Me allow it to dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut without 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 number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or Window Replacement Near Me close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

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

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold 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 into and need to be removed. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

If you don't have an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.