What Experts Say You Should Learn

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the local window repair sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure 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 need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In most instances, Sash Window Repair a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or sash window repair disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were 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 with a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, thread a 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 adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash Window Repair is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.