Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and healthndream.com mark its width and height so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double glazing Amersham-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace 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 trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Many times just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and Repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed, 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 then covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off 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 weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window repair Kingston the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each component. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.