Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazing Colchester-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the 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. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, double Glazing Colchester apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, double Glazing Colchester this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be due to various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike 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's opening and remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazing repairs Wokingham-hung window the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these chains can get 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 position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and require removal. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.