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Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and window repair can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair timber windows experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. 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). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces 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 could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, Window Repair so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights 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 size and shape of your Window repair, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.