Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step for window doctor near me repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, start 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 width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to a variety of factors that include the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or window Doctor near me iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to locate a new 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 by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazing-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window doctor near me (visit my website). A new sash cable will give you 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 into and require removal. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can do this with 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 weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.