Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

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

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that divide 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 replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to 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 simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with very little effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished 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 remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazing Rickmansworth-hung window repair reading, a cord or chain is attached 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 cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for window repair Reading sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.