Write About Everything

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it’s damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer’s date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you’ll have 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. Once you’ve taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It’s good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you’re having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it’s most likely that the sash balance is off. You’ll need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, Window Repairs East Grinstead sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn’t properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you’ll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel’s location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you’re finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window repair Kilburn – Repairmywindowsanddoors writes – to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

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 a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazing Greenwich-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. You could employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it’s best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as “tie rails”) out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free, so it’s worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then secure it in the previous step. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It’s best to leave the original weights if you’ve purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It’s cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy 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.