5 Window Sash Repairs Lessons From The Professionals

Window Sash Repairs Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages before they become out of control. The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash. Weather Stripping Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows. The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches. Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using the putty blade. After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers standard ½-inch by ¾-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber. After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. double glazing repair Enfield will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance. Sash Hardware The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware. Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular sash. If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3). Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills. To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag that is labeled. Sash Weights Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners. A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord. Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets. After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame. After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. After the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments. Sash Cords The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened. The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work. After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff. Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix 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 counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.