How Much Do Window Sash Repairs Experts Make?

Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin 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 get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using the putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. After the putty has completely cure and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window repairs sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is 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 take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, Window Repairs you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.