Why Window Sash Repairs Could Be Your Next Big Obsession

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on upvc door repairs near me in the future.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, 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 glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door repair or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove 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 connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This can be due to various reasons, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and window repairs tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it open.