20 Window Sash Repairs Websites That Are Taking The Internet By Storm

window repair Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years when they are maintained properly. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using 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 of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be difficult 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 lack of maintenance or window repairs by a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

In order to make these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off 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 shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your upvc window repairs one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it open.