window doctor; she said, Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, Window Doctor start by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should be buried in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and Window doctor close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and 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. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding 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 keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow 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 with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it may require oil if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then 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 haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.