Window Sash Repairs Tips From The Best In The Business

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore 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 windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. 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, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.
To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable window sash using rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can view the inside of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. As window repair near me , these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. window repair could employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.