The Top Window Sash Repairs The Gurus Are Using Three Things

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages, before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazing near me-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, repairing then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This can be due to various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can 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 bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazing repairs-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash 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 usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely 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. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.