A Look At The Myths And Facts Behind Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early before they get out of hand.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double glazed window repairs near me-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two 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 trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window repair sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or window repairs chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of 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.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, 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 future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You could employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, window repairs it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.