A Guide To Window Sash Repairs From Start To Finish

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's 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 find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is Double Glazing Window Repairs (Http://Faitalia.Co.Kr/Bbs/Board.Php?Bo_Table=Free&Wr_Id=39286)-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a door or window repair that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have 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 deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, Double Glazing Window Repairs you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.

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

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each component. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window repair near you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.