10 Unexpected Window Sash Repairs Tips

window repair near me Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages, before they become too much.

The sash is an inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and window Repairs width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a window repairs near me or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem could be caused by many factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length 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. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, 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 best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.