Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double glazing repairs Dover-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These 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 Repair Croydon trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, Window Repair Croydon and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cure, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing Woodley-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.